From the FDA Drug Label
There are no data on the presence of tirzepatide in animal or human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for MOUNJARO and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from MOUNJARO or from the underlying maternal condition. are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed It is not known if MOUNJARO passes into your breast milk. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby while using MOUNJARO.
Mounjaro and Breastfeeding: It is not known if Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is safe to use during breastfeeding. The FDA drug label states that there are no data on the presence of tirzepatide in animal or human milk, and the effects on the breastfed infant or milk production are unknown. Therefore, caution is advised when using Mounjaro in breastfeeding women, and the decision to use Mounjaro should be made after consulting a healthcare provider and considering the potential risks and benefits 1 1.
From the Research
The safety of Mounjaro (tirzepatide) during breastfeeding is not well established, and it is generally not recommended for use while nursing. There is limited research on how much tirzepatide passes into breast milk or its potential effects on breastfed infants. Tirzepatide is a large peptide molecule, which theoretically may limit its transfer into breast milk, but this hasn't been adequately studied 2. The medication works by mimicking incretin hormones that regulate blood sugar and appetite, which could potentially affect a nursing infant's metabolism if transferred through breast milk.
Some key points to consider:
- Limited research is available on the use of tirzepatide during breastfeeding, making it difficult to determine its safety for nursing infants 3, 4.
- Alternative medications with better established safety profiles during lactation, such as insulin or certain oral antidiabetics like metformin, may be more appropriate options for breastfeeding mothers with type 2 diabetes 2.
- Tirzepatide has shown promise in diabetes treatment, offering glucose control and weight loss, but its use during breastfeeding requires careful consideration of potential risks and benefits 5, 6.
- Healthcare providers should be consulted before starting, stopping, or continuing Mounjaro while breastfeeding, as they can help weigh the potential risks against the benefits based on the individual's specific health situation and provide guidance on monitoring the baby if the medication is deemed necessary.