Azmacort and Breastfeeding

Because no studies have been done on Azmacort and breastfeeding, it is not known whether the drug passes through breast milk. However, it is believed that the medication is probably safe to use while breastfeeding. This is because very low levels of Azmacort enter the bloodstream during inhalation, which means it is unlikely that the drug would be passed through breast milk in high enough levels to cause problems in the nursing infant.

 

Azmacort and Breastfeeding: An Overview

Azmacort® (triamcinolone inhaler) is a prescription medication used to treat asthma. It is part of a group of medications called corticosteroids.
 
It is not known if triamcinolone (the active ingredient of Azmacort) passes through breast milk. Because of the potentially serious side effects that could occur in the nursing infant, the manufacturer of Azmacort recommends that women use caution when taking Azmacort while breastfeeding. Therefore, make sure to let your healthcare provider know if you are breastfeeding or thinking of breastfeeding.
 

Azmacort and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?

Although no research has been done to see if triamcinolone passes through breast milk, it is known that other corticosteroids pass through breast milk. Because blood levels of inhaled triamcinolone (the active ingredient of Azmacort) are usually very low, it is unlikely that triamcinolone would be passed through breast milk at high enough levels to cause problems. It is generally thought that Azmacort is probably safe for many women who are breastfeeding. If your healthcare provider recommends taking Azmacort while breastfeeding, be sure to watch for any side effects in your child.
 

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Azmacort and Breastfeeding

You should talk with your healthcare provider about Azmacort and breastfeeding. Everyone's situation is different, and your healthcare provider understands your situation best. After considering what you want and expect (and your current health situation), you and your healthcare provider can make a shared decision about Azmacort 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;