Summary of Use during Lactation

No relevant published information exists on the use of simvastatin during breastfeeding. Because of a concern with disruption of infant lipid metabolism, the consensus is that simvastatin should not be used during breastfeeding. However, others have argued that children homozygous for familial hypercholesterolemia are treated with statins beginning at 1 year of age, that statins have low oral bioavailability, and risks to the breastfed infant are low, especially with rosuvastatin and pravastatin.[1] Until more data become available, an alternate drug may be preferred, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.

Drug Levels

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Effects in Breastfed Infants

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Effects on Lactation and Breastmilk

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Alternate Drugs to Consider

Cholestyramine, Colesevelam, Colestipol

References

1.

Holmsen ST, Bakkebo T, Seferowicz M, et al. Statins and breastfeeding in familial hypercholesterolaemia. Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen 2017;137:686–7. [PubMed: 28551957]

Substance Name

Simvastatin

CAS Registry Number

79902-63-9

Drug Class

Breast Feeding

Lactation

Milk, Human

Anticholesteremic Agents

Hypolipidemic Agents

Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors