Somatrem and Breastfeeding

Summary of use during lactation

Because somatrem is poorly absorbed orally, it is not likely to reach the bloodstream of the infant or cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. However, there is no published experience with somatrem during breastfeeding, so an alternate drug may be preferred, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant. The closely related recombinant human growth hormone, somatropin, has been reported to increase milk production.

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

A study in 30 pregnant women found that the mean maternal serum growth hormone level progressively increased from an average of 0.2 mIU/L at 36 weeks’ gestation to a peak value of 0.9 mIU/L on postpartum day 3, with levels decreasing to 0.2 mIU/L by postpartum day 4. In vitro studies found that growth hormone increases the metabolism of mammary epithelial cells by increasing mitochondrial activity.[1]

Alternative drugs to consider

Somatropin

References

1. Elajnaf T, Rostom H, Meng X, et al. Serum growth hormone increases at the onset of lactation and promotes mitochondrial activity in human mammary cells. J Endocr Soc 2023;7:A605. doi:10.1210/jendso/bvad114.1132