The Basics

What is Semaglutide?

Used to control blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes.

Brand names for Semaglutide

Ozempic

How Semaglutide is classified

Hypoglycemic Agents, Incretins, Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Agonists, GLP-1 Agonists

Semaglutide During Pregnancy

Semaglutide pregnancy category

Category N/ANote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.

What we know about taking Semaglutide while pregnant

N/A

Taking Semaglutide While Breastfeeding

What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Semaglutide?

No information is available on the clinical use of semaglutide during breastfeeding. Because semaglutide is a peptide molecule with a molecular weight of 4113 daltons and is over 99% protein bound, the amount in milk is likely to be very low. Absorption by the infant is unlikely because the drug is probably destroyed in the infant’s gastrointestinal tract. Until more data become available, semaglutide should be used with caution during breastfeeding, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.

Maternal / infant drug levels

No information is available on the clinical use of semaglutide during breastfeeding. Because semaglutide is a peptide molecule with a molecular weight of 4113 daltons and is over 99% protein bound, the amount in milk is likely to be very low. Absorption by the infant is unlikely because the drug is probably destroyed in the infant’s gastrointestinal tract. Until more data become available, semaglutide should be used with caution during breastfeeding, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.

Possible effects of Semaglutide on milk supply

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

Possible alternatives to Semaglutide

Acarbose, Glipizide, Glyburide, Insulin, Metformin, Miglitol.

List of References

Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/None listed

Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.

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