LACTNET Archives

Lactation Information and Discussion

LACTNET@COMMUNITY.LSOFT.COM

Options: Use Forum View

Use Monospaced Font
Show Text Part by Default
Show All Mail Headers

Message: [<< First] [< Prev] [Next >] [Last >>]
Topic: [<< First] [< Prev] [Next >] [Last >>]
Author: [<< First] [< Prev] [Next >] [Last >>]

Print Reply
Subject:
From:
Tom Hale <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Lactation Information and Discussion <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Wed, 20 Aug 1997 09:33:51 -0500
Content-Type:
text/plain
Parts/Attachments:
text/plain (26 lines)
To      :Dianne
Re      :Alphagon (Brimonidine) ophthalmic drops

Brimonidine is a prototypical alpha-2 agonist that is used to reduce
intraocular pressure, such as in glaucoma.  After instillation in the eye it
does produce some systemic lowering of the blood pressure.  No data is
available on its transfer to human milk,  but rodent studies suggest that it
can pass into animal milk.  The company suggests that it should not be used in
breastfeeding mothers. The half-life is 3 hours, time to peak is 1-4 hours
after ophthalmic use.  Side effects include drowsiness, Headache, insomnia,
depression, anxiety, dry mouth, lowered blood pressure.  Oral bioavailability
appears good.

It is structurally similar to clonidine,  so you can review the monograph of
clonidine to get a feeling for this product.

One suggestion,  Timolol which is a beta blocker has been found in at least one
study to be equivalent to brimonidine in reducing introcular pressure,  and
Timolol is AAP approved for breastfeeding mothers.  Perhaps she could ask her
physician if he/she could use timolol instead.  Just a suggestion.

Regards

Tom Hale Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Pediatrics

ATOM RSS1 RSS2