The Basics
What is Sildenafil?
As an injection, used to treat the symptoms of pulmonary arterial hypertension; taken orally, used to treat erectile dysfunction-ED.
Brand names for Sildenafil
Revatio, Viagra
How Sildenafil is classified
Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors, Vasodilator Agents
Sildenafil During Pregnancy
Sildenafil pregnancy category
Category BNote 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 Sildenafil while pregnant
N/A
Taking Sildenafil While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Sildenafil?
Limited data indicate that sildenafil and its active metabolite in breastmilk are poorly excreted into breastmilk. Amounts ingested by the infant are small and would not be expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants.
Maternal / infant drug levels
Limited data indicate that sildenafil and its active metabolite in breastmilk are poorly excreted into breastmilk. Amounts ingested by the infant are small and would not be expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants.
Possible effects of Sildenafil on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Sildenafil
None listed
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/NBK501922/1. Wollein U, Schech B, Hardt J et al. Determination and quantitation of sildenafil and its major metabolite in the breast milk of a lactating woman. J Pharm Biomed Anal. 2015;120:100-5. PMID: 26717019
2. Molelekwa V, Akhter P, McKenna P et al. Eisenmenger’s syndrome in a 27 week pregnancy–management with bosentan and sildenafil. Ir Med J. 2005;98:87-8. PMID: 15869069
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.
