Summary of Use during Lactation

The excretion of octreotide into breastmilk has not been studied. However, because it has a high molecular weight of 1019 daltons it is likely to be poorly excreted into breastmilk. It is poorly absorbed orally and has been safely administered directly to infants by injection, so it is unlikely to adversely affect the breastfed infant.[1] At least two infants have been successfully breastfed with no adverse effects reported. Until more data are available, octreotide should be used in nursing mothers with careful infant monitoring, especially if the infant is under 2 months of age.

Drug Levels

Maternal Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Effects in Breastfed Infants

One mother was treated for acromegaly during pregnancy and postpartum with octreotide (dose not stated). She breastfed (extent not stated) her infant for 4 months with no apparent problems noted in the infant.[2]

Effects on Lactation and Breastmilk

A pregnant woman with acromegaly started long-acting octreotide 10 mg monthly at 12 weeks gestation. After delivery, she breastfed her until 6 weeks postpartum when she required an increase in octreotide LAR to 20 mg monthly. She continued to breastfeed successfully on octreotide.[3]

References

1.

van der Steen I, van Albada ME, Mohnike K, et al. A multicenter experience with long-acting somatostatin analogues in patients with congenital hyperinsulinism. Horm Res Paediatr. 2018;89:82–9. [PubMed: 29241206]

2.

Colao A, Merola B, Ferone D, et al. Acromegaly. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1997;82:2777–81. [PubMed: 9284694]

3.

Assal A, Malcolm J, Lochnan H, et al. Preconception counselling for women with acromegaly: More questions than answers. Obstet Med. 2016;9:9–14. [PMC free article: PMC4950431] [PubMed: 27512484]

Substance Name

Octreotide

CAS Registry Number

83150-76-9

Drug Class

Breast Feeding

Lactation

Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal

Gastrointestinal Agents

Somatostatin Analogs