Summary of use during lactation
Because of the low levels of tolmetin in breastmilk and its short half-life, it is unlikely to adversely affect the breastfed infant. However, because there is no published experience with breastfeeding during tolmetin use, other agents may be preferred, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.
Drug levels in milk and infant serum
Maternal Levels. Following a single 400 mg dose of tolmetin in a woman who was 2 months postpartum, peak milk levels occurred at 40 and 60 minutes after the dose in the right and left breasts, respectively, and averaged 160 mcg/L. The drug was undetectable (<30 mcg/L) in milk by 5 hours after the dose and its half-life in breastmilk was 1.54 hours.[1] Using the peak milk level data, the estimated maximum intake of an exclusively breastfed infant would be 0.4% of the maternal weight-adjusted dosage. 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 was not found as of the revision date.
Alternative drugs to consider
Acetaminophen, Celecoxib, Diclofenac, Flurbiprofen, Ibuprofen, Indomethacin, Naproxen, Piroxicam
Source: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®), National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NCBI Bookshelf. Check LactMed for the most recent revision.
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