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Flonase and Breastfeeding
Since Flonase is a nasal spray that reaches the bloodstream in extremely low amounts, it is not likely that it would pass through breast milk. Although breastfed infants are not expected to be exposed to Flonase, breastfeeding women should watch for side effects in their child while breastfeeding. Because of potential risks, you should let your healthcare provider know if you are taking Flonase and breastfeeding.
Flonase and Breastfeeding: An Overview
Currently, it is unknown whether Flonase® (fluticasone propionate nasal spray) passes through breast milk in humans (although it appears to pass through breast milk in rats). If you are breastfeeding a child, you should talk with your healthcare provider about taking Flonase.
Flonase and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?
Flonase is a steroid nasal spray. Studies have shown that other steroids pass through breast milk, but it is not known whether fluticasone propionate (the active ingredient of Flonase) passes through breast milk in humans. However, because very little Flonase reaches the bloodstream (because it is a nasal spray), Flonase is not expected to pass through breast milk (since medications must enter the bloodstream before they enter breast milk). If your healthcare provider recommends taking Flonase while breastfeeding, be sure to watch for any side effects in your child.
Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Flonase and Breastfeeding
You should talk with your healthcare provider about Flonase and breastfeeding. 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, you and your healthcare provider can make a shared decision about Flonase and breastfeeding in your particular situation.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD