The Basics
What is Cascara Sagrada?
Used as a laxative.
Brand names for Cascara Sagrada
N/A
How Cascara Sagrada is classified
Cathartics, Gastrointestinal Agents
Cascara Sagrada During Pregnancy
Cascara Sagrada 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 Cascara Sagrada while pregnant
Not recommended during pregnancy.
Taking Cascara Sagrada While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Cascara Sagrada?
Maternal cascara intake might cause loose stools in some breastfed infants and should be avoided.[1] Other laxatives are preferred.
Maternal / infant drug levels
Maternal cascara intake might cause loose stools in some breastfed infants and should be avoided.[1] Other laxatives are preferred.
Possible effects of Cascara Sagrada on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Cascara Sagrada
Bisacodyl, Magnesium Hydroxide, Senna.
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. Lewis JH, Weingold AB and the Committee of FDA-Related Matters, American College of Gastroenterology. The use of gastrointestinal drugs during pregnancy and lactation. Am J Gastroenterol. 1985;80:912-23. PMID: 2864852
2. Tyson RM, Shrader EA, Perlman HH. Drugs transmitted through breast milk. Part I: laxatives. J Pediatr. 1937;11:824-32.
3. Duncan AS. Standardized senna as a laxative in the puerperium. A clinical assessment. Br Med J. 1957;1:439-41. PMID: 13396280
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.
