Flovent and Breastfeeding: An Overview
Flovent® HFA (
fluticasone HFA) is an environmentally friendly inhaler that has replaced the old Flovent
® inhaler, which contained substances that may deplete the ozone layer.
In this article, we use "Flovent" and "Flovent HFA" interchangeably to refer to Flovent HFA.
It is not known if inhaled fluticasone (the active ingredient of Flovent HFA) passes through breast milk. Because of the potentially serious side effects that could occur in the nursing infant, the manufacturer of Flovent HFA does not recommend using the inhaler if you are breastfeeding. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding or thinking of breastfeeding while taking Flovent HFA, make sure to let your healthcare provider know.
Flovent and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?
No research has been done to see if inhaled fluticasone is passed through breast milk. Because blood levels of inhaled fluticasone are usually very low, it is unlikely that inhaled fluticasone would be passed through breast milk in high enough levels to cause problems. It is generally thought that Flovent HFA is probably safe for most women who are breastfeeding. If your healthcare provider recommends taking Flovent HFA while breastfeeding, be sure to watch for any side effects in your child.
Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Flovent and Breastfeeding
You should talk with your healthcare provider about Flovent HFA 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 Flovent HFA and breastfeeding for your particular situation.
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