Ethacrynic Acid and Breastfeeding

Summary of use during lactation

Because no information is available on the use of ethacrynic acid during breastfeeding and because intense diuresis might decrease lactation, an alternate drug may be preferred, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant. Low doses of ethacrynic acid may not suppress lactation.

Drug levels in milk and infant serum

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

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

Effects on lactation and breastmilk

Ethacrynic acid was reportedly used successfully to suppress lactation in 6 postpartum women who did not want to breastfeed and to decrease the intensity of milk production in another.[1] The added contribution of the diuretic to the other measures, which are effective in suppressing lactation, has not been studied. No data exist on the effects of loop diuretics on established, ongoing lactation.

Alternative drugs to consider

Chlorothiazide, Hydrochlorothiazide

References

1. MahonR DubecqJ BaudetE [Use of Edecrine in obstetrics] Bull Fed Soc Gynecol Obstet Lang Fr 1968 20 440 2 5759113 PubMed