Levatol and Breastfeeding

Since no studies have been performed on Levatol (penbutolol) and breastfeeding, it is not known whether the medication passes through breast milk. Potentially serious problems (such as dangerously slow heart rate or low blood pressure) could occur in an infant exposed to the drug. If you are taking this drug while breastfeeding, be sure to watch for any problems in your child.

Is Levatol Safe for Breastfeeding Women?

At this time, it is unknown if Levatol® (penbutolol sulfate) passes through breast milk in humans. Levatol is a beta blocker medication that can affect the blood vessels and the heart. It could potentially cause problems in a nursing infant. As a result, be sure to talk with your healthcare provider before taking Levatol if you are breastfeeding or plan to start.
 

What Does the Research Say?

No studies have been done to see if Levatol passes through breast milk. It is possible that serious problems (such as a dangerously low heart rate or low blood pressure) could occur in the infant. Therefore, if your healthcare provider decides that it is okay for you to take Levatol while breastfeeding, make sure to monitor your child to make sure that no serious problems occur. In particular, monitoring of the infant's blood pressure and heart rate are important.
 

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Breastfeeding and Levatol

You should talk with your healthcare provider about breastfeeding and
 Levatol use. Each woman's situation is different, and you and your healthcare provider understand your situation best. After considering what you want and expect, as well as your current health situation, the two of you can make a shared decision that is right for you.
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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