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Nortriptyline and Breastfeeding

If you are taking nortriptyline and breastfeeding at the same time, the medication does pass through your breast milk in low amounts. However, studies have shown that there appear to be no negative effects on the development of the breastfed babies whose mothers were taking nortriptyline. You should, however, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about whether taking nortriptyline while breastfeeding is the best decision for your situation.

 

Nortriptyline and Breastfeeding: An Overview

Nortriptyline hydrochloride (Pamelor®) passes through breast milk in low amounts. Because of the possible harmful effects nortriptyline might have on the breastfeeding infant, it's important to talk with your healthcare provider before taking nortriptyline while breastfeeding.
 

Nortriptyline and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?

The levels of nortriptyline that are passed through breast milk appear to be low. Most studies found very low (or undetectable) amounts of nortriptyline in the blood of the breastfed babies. Studies have also shown that there are no negative effects on the development of the breastfed babies whose mothers were taking nortriptyline.
 

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Nortriptyline and Breastfeeding

You should talk with your healthcare provider about nortriptyline and breastfeeding. This is because everyone's situation is different, and your healthcare provider understands your situation best. Based on what you want and expect (as well as your current health situation), you and your healthcare provider can make a shared decision about nortriptyline and breastfeeding in your particular situation.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;