When considering propranolol and pregnancy, one of the first things to look at is the pregnancy rating. For propranolol, that rating is C, meaning that the drug has had an adverse effect on the developing fetus in animal testing.
In most cases, there is not enough human testing to say for sure if it is a risk, though. Ideally, an expected mother would not take this drug unless there was no other choice.
Propranolol and Breastfeeding
Propranolol is excreted in breastmilk. It’s not clear if it impacts the baby, but nursing mothers should use caution before taking this drug.
FAQ
Can propranolol cause a miscarriage?
There is no evidence that taking propranolol may lead to miscarriage.
Can you take a beta-blocker when pregnant?
Beta-blockers are often necessary during pregnancy to control blood pressure or cardiac conditions.
What pregnancy category is propranolol?
Propranolol is pregnancy category C, meaning animal tests do show that the drug can have an adverse reaction on an animal fetus. There are no human tests available to determine if it impacts a human fetus, though.
Does propranolol cross the placenta?
Propranolol has high lipophilicity, so it does readily cross the placenta to impact the developing fetus, according to one recent study.
Can you take propranolol when breastfeeding?
It is better not to take propranolol while breastfeeding because it is present in breastmilk.
Does propranolol affect female fertility?
There isn’t enough evidence to be sure that it doesn’t impact female fertility. However, oral propranolol does accumulate in the cervicovaginal mucus. Someone taking this drug and having a hard time getting pregnant may want to talk to a physician to see if it is having an impact.
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