Felbatol and Breastfeeding

In most situations, women are typically advised to avoid Felbatol (felbamate) while breastfeeding. This medication does pass through breast milk; however, the effects it may have on a nursing infant are unknown. Felbatol has the potential to cause life-threatening complications, so it's important to discuss this issue with your healthcare provider before using this drug while breastfeeding.

Felbatol Medication Information

Can Women Take Felbatol While Breastfeeding?

Felbatol^® (felbamate) is passed through breast milk. However, the effect on the nursing child is unknown. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding a child, talk with your healthcare provider before taking Felbatol.

More Information on Breastfeeding and Felbatol

While it is known that Felbatol passes through breast milk, it is not known whether this causes problems in nursing infants. Because this medication does have the potential to cause liver failure and a potentially fatal anemia, it is recommended that women who are breastfeeding either not use Felbatol or stop breastfeeding.

If your healthcare provider recommends that you take Felbatol while continuing to breastfeed, make sure to watch for any possible side effects in your child (see Felbatol Side Effects for more information). It would also be a good idea for your child's healthcare provider to regularly monitor your child for liver or anemia problems using simple blood tests.

However, in almost all situations, it is preferable that women avoid breastfeeding while taking Felbatol, as the risks to the child are simply too great.

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider

You should discuss breastfeeding and

Felbatol use with your healthcare provider. 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.