Re  : Hypolipidemic agents

A frequently asked question is about treating elevated cholesterol levels in
breastfeeding women.  First,  cholesterol is a terribly important chemical
in building an infant's brain,  so reducing it in the mother is not a very
good idea.  Should small amounts transfer into the infant, it could
potentially lower their plasma cholesterol levels as well and it would
probably mean fewer brain cells, etc.

Secondly,  atheroslcerosis (in the mother) is a life-long process.  One or
two years of elevated cholesterol while a woman breastfeeds won't make a bit
of difference.

Therefore,  I strongly suggest breastfeeding women NOT use any of the
hypolipidemic agents while they breastfeed,  as the infant needs the
cholesterol and it won't really change that mother's risks at all.  This
includes all of the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, Mevacor, Pravachol,Zocor,
Lescol, Lipitor, etc.


Regards

Tom Hale, R.Ph., Ph.D.

http://neonatal.ttuhsc.edu/lact/