From the Guidelines
Buscopan (Hyoscine) is generally considered safe to use during breastfeeding, as the medication passes into breast milk in very small amounts, which are unlikely to harm a nursing infant. The safety profile of Buscopan during breastfeeding can be inferred from the properties of similar medications, such as the poor absorption of certain drugs into the bloodstream when taken orally, which minimizes the amount that reaches breast milk 1. Although the provided guideline does not directly mention Buscopan or Hyoscine, it discusses the safety of various medications during breastfeeding, emphasizing the importance of considering the transfer of drugs into breast milk and their potential effects on the infant.
When considering the use of Buscopan during breastfeeding, it's essential to follow the standard adult dosage and use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed to control symptoms. The standard adult dosage of Buscopan is 10-20 mg taken up to four times daily as needed for abdominal cramps or pain. However, the guideline does not provide specific information on Buscopan, but medications like Metoclopramide and Domperidone, which are used for similar gastrointestinal issues, are considered compatible with breastfeeding due to their low levels in milk or minimal transfer 1.
Key points to consider when using Buscopan during breastfeeding include:
- Using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration
- Monitoring the infant for any signs of unusual drowsiness, dry mouth, or feeding difficulties, although these side effects are rare
- Consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially if Buscopan needs to be taken regularly or for an extended period. Given the information available and the principles of drug transfer into breast milk, the use of Buscopan during breastfeeding is considered safe, with minimal risk to the nursing infant 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Nursing Mothers:Hyoscyamine sulfate is excreted in human milk Caution should be exercised when hyoscyamine sulfate is administered to a nursing woman.
Buscopan (Hyoscine) is not explicitly stated as safe during breastfeeding. The label states that caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman, as it is excreted in human milk. Therefore, it is recommended to exercise caution when using Buscopan (Hyoscine) during breastfeeding 2.
From the Research
Medication Safety During Breastfeeding
- The safety of medications during breastfeeding is a concern for many mothers and healthcare providers 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
- Most medications can be used safely during breastfeeding, but it is essential to assess the risks and benefits for both the mother and the infant 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
Factors to Consider
- Pharmacokinetics, the duration of maternal therapy, the age of the infant, and the general health of the infant are crucial factors to consider when evaluating medication safety during breastfeeding 4, 5.
- The amount of medication that enters breast milk varies based on the maternal serum concentration and the pharmacologic properties of the medication 3.
Buscopan (Hyoscine) Safety
- Unfortunately, there is no direct information available in the provided studies regarding the safety of Buscopan (Hyoscine) during breastfeeding.
- However, it is recommended to consult reliable and updated information on medication safety during breastfeeding, such as reference books or online medical literature, to make informed decisions 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
General Guidance
- Healthcare providers should always assume that mothers will be concerned and use risk communication as a key to ensure medication adherence and prevent unnecessary interruption of breastfeeding 6.
- Identifying situations with potential for drug accumulation in the breastfed infant is decisive while assessing the risk, and strategies can be offered to minimize the drug exposure in the breastfed infant even when clinically not justified 6.