Is Taking Lipofen While Breastfeeding Safe?
At this time, it is unknown if
Lipofen® (
fenofibrate) is safe for use during breastfeeding. It is usually recommended that breastfeeding women avoid taking Lipofen. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider before taking Lipofen if you are breastfeeding or plan to start.
Risks of Breastfeeding While on Lipofen
The main concern about using this drug while breastfeeding is that it has been shown to be a possible carcinogen in rats. It is not a good idea to expose a developing infant to a possible carcinogen.
No research has been done to see if Lipofen passes through breast milk. However, based on its chemical structure, it is thought that Lipofen probably does pass through breast milk.
Lipofen can be used to treat either
high cholesterol or
high triglycerides. The
effects of high cholesterol do not cause problems for many years, or even decades. Therefore, it should be expected that if a woman does not take
cholesterol medicine while breastfeeding, it will have little impact on any long-term risks. However, the effects of very high
triglycerides can cause immediate problems, and you may need to be treated for very high triglycerides while breastfeeding (even if this means you must stop breastfeeding).
Talking With Your Healthcare Provider
You should talk with your healthcare provider about taking this medication while breastfeeding.
Each woman's situation is different, and you and your healthcare provider understand your situation best. After considering what you want and expect, as well as your current health situation, the two of you can make a shared decision that is right for you.
