Is Bromfed (brompheniramine) safe to use during breastfeeding?

Bromfed (Brompheniramine) and Breastfeeding

Bromfed (brompheniramine) is contraindicated during breastfeeding due to the higher risk of intolerance in infants, particularly in newborns and premature babies. 1

Safety Concerns

The FDA drug label for brompheniramine clearly states that this medication should not be used by nursing mothers for several important reasons:

• Antihistamines pose a higher risk of intolerance in small infants generally
• Newborns and premature infants are at particularly high risk for adverse effects 1
• The medication can transfer through breast milk and potentially cause:
  • Sedation
  • Irritability
  • Decreased feeding
  • Anticholinergic effects

Alternative Options

For mothers requiring antihistamine therapy while breastfeeding, consider these safer alternatives:

• Second-generation antihistamines (such as loratadine or cetirizine) are generally considered more compatible with breastfeeding
• Non-pharmacological approaches to allergy management when possible:
  • Allergen avoidance
  • Saline nasal irrigation
  • Environmental controls

Risk Assessment Considerations

When evaluating any medication during breastfeeding, several factors should be considered:

• Infant age and health status (premature and newborn infants are at highest risk) 2
• Medication properties (lipid solubility, protein binding, half-life)
• Timing of medication in relation to feeding
• Duration of therapy needed

Clinical Decision-Making

The decision to use any medication during breastfeeding requires weighing:

1. The importance of the drug to the mother
2. The potential risk to the infant
3. The benefits of continued breastfeeding

In the case of brompheniramine, the FDA contraindication is clear and should be followed 1. Most medications are compatible with breastfeeding, but brompheniramine is specifically identified as problematic 2.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Assuming all antihistamines carry equal risk during breastfeeding
• Failing to consider the age of the infant (younger infants are at higher risk)
• Discontinuing breastfeeding unnecessarily when safer alternative medications exist
• Not consulting reliable, up-to-date resources about medication safety during lactation

Remember that while most commonly used drugs are relatively safe during breastfeeding, brompheniramine is specifically contraindicated according to its FDA labeling 1.