Clozapine and Breastfeeding

If you are taking clozapine and breastfeeding at the same time, you should know that the medication passes through breast milk to the nursing baby. The manufacturer of clozapine recommends that women who are breastfeeding avoid the drug due to the risk of potentially serious side effects. If your healthcare provider recommends clozapine while breastfeeding, your infant may need frequent blood tests to check for dangerous side effects.

 

An Overview of Clozapine and Breastfeeding

Clozapine (Clozaril®, FazaClo®) is passed through breast milk. Because of the potentially serious side effects that could occur in the nursing infant as a result, the manufacturer of the drug does not recommend that women who are breastfeeding use it. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding or thinking of breastfeeding and have been prescribed clozapine, make sure to let your healthcare provider know.
 

Clozapine and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?

Clozapine passes through breast milk. However, it is not known what effects this may have on a breastfed infant. If your healthcare provider recommends the drug while breastfeeding, be sure to watch for any side effects in your child. Your healthcare provider may recommend that your infant have frequent blood tests to check for dangerous clozapine side effects.
 

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Clozapine and Breastfeeding

You should talk with your healthcare provider about clozapine and breastfeeding. Everyone's situation is different, and your healthcare provider understands your situation best. After considering what you want and expect (as well as your current health situation), you and your healthcare provider can make a shared decision about clozapine and breastfeeding that is right for you.
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;