Somatropin

Review
In: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; 2006.
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Excerpt

Limited data indicate that exogenous somatropin does not increase normal breastmilk concentrations of growth hormone and that no adverse effects are experienced by the breastfed infants of mothers who receive somatropin. Small studies by one group of investigators found that milk output increases from 19% to 36% after a 7-day course of somatropin. Because mothers were not given extensive breastfeeding support in these studies, the usefulness of the drug as a galactogogue in mothers given adequate breastfeeding support is not known. Galactogogues should never replace evaluation and counseling on modifiable factors that affect milk production.[1,2]

Based on theoretical considerations, the manufacturer of Zomacton 5 mg recommends avoiding the use of the diluent, which contains benzyl alcohol, for lactating women. Instead use preservative-free normal saline as a diluent and discard any remaining drug.

Publication types

  • Review