Metolazone and Breastfeeding

Summary of use during lactation

No information is available on the amount of metolazone in breastmilk. Intense diuresis with large doses may decrease breastmilk production. Other diuretics in low doses are preferred over metolazone.

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

Relevant published information on metolazone was not found as of the revision date. Intense diuresis with thiazides and thiazide-like diuretics, fluid restriction and breast binding have been used to suppress postpartum lactation.[1-3] The added contribution of the diuretic to these measures, which are effective in suppressing lactation, has not been studied. There are no data on the effects of diuretics on established, ongoing lactation.

Alternative drugs to consider

Chlorothiazide, Hydrochlorothiazide

References

1. Healy M. Suppressing lactation with oral diuretics. Lancet 1961;1:1353-4.doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(61)90289-64134342 PubMed
2. Reiher KH. Suppression of lactation by stimulation of diuresis. Zentralbl Gynakol 1963;85:188-9013973786 PubMed
3. Stout G. Suppression of lactation. Br Med J 1962;1:115018117911 PubMed