Psyllium and Breastfeeding

Summary of use during lactation

Few data are available on psyllium use during breastfeeding. However, the drug is not absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, so it cannot enter the breastmilk. Psyllium is acceptable to use during breastfeeding.[1,2]

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

Twenty postpartum mothers were given a laxative containing 2.7 grams of plantango (psyllium) and senna equivalent to 15 mg of sennosides a and b daily on days 2 to 4 postpartum. Of the 11 infants who were breastfed (extent not stated), none had any loose stools.[3]

Effects on lactation and breastmilk

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

Alternative drugs to consider

(Constipation) Bisacodyl, Docusate, Magnesium Hydroxide, Sodium Phosphate; (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) Linaclotide, Lubiprostone, Plecanatide, Prucalopride, Tenapanor

References

1. LewisJH WeingoldAB Committee of FDA-Related Matters American College of Gastroenterology The use of gastrointestinal drugs during pregnancy and lactation. Am J Gastroenterol 1985 80 912 23 2864852 PubMed
2. HagemannTM Gastrointestinal medications and breastfeeding. J Hum Lact 1998 14 259 62 10205441 PubMed
3. FaberP Strenge-HesseA Relevance of rhein excretion into breast milk. Pharmacology 1988 36 Suppl 1 212 20 3368521 PubMed