The Basics
What is Metipranolol?
Used to treat glaucoma.
Brand names for Metipranolol
Optipranolol
How Metipranolol is classified
Antihypertensive Agents, Adrenergic Beta-Antagonists, Antiglaucoma Agents, Antiarrhythmics
Metipranolol During Pregnancy
Metipranolol pregnancy category
Category CNote 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 Metipranolol while pregnant
No drug related effects were reported for the segment II teratology study in fetal rats after administration, during organogenesis, to dams of up to 50 mg/kg/day. OptiPranolol (metipranolol ophthalmic solution) Ophthalmic Solution has been shown to increase fetal resorption, fetal death, and delayed development when administered orally to rabbits at 50 mg/kg/day during organogenesis. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. OptiPranolol (metipranolol ophthalmic solution) Ophthalmic Solution should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Taking Metipranolol While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Metipranolol?
Based on its physicochemical properties and its ophthalmic route of administration, metipranolol eye drops would not be expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. To substantially diminish the amount of drug that reaches the breastmilk after using eye drops, place pressure over the tear duct by the corner of the eye for 1 minute or more, then remove the excess solution with an absorbent tissue.
Maternal / infant drug levels
Based on its physicochemical properties and its ophthalmic route of administration, metipranolol eye drops would not be expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. To substantially diminish the amount of drug that reaches the breastmilk after using eye drops, place pressure over the tear duct by the corner of the eye for 1 minute or more, then remove the excess solution with an absorbent tissue.
Possible effects of Metipranolol on milk supply
Relevant published information on the effects of beta-blockade or metipranolol during normal lactation was not found as of the revision date. A study in 6 patients with hyperprolactinemia and galactorrhea found no changes in serum prolactin levels following beta-adrenergic blockade with propranolol.[3]
Possible alternatives to Metipranolol
(Ophthalmic) Levobunolol, Timolol.
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. Riant P, Urien S, Albengres E et al. High plasma protein binding as a parameter in the selection of betablockers for lactating women. Biochem Pharmacol. 1986;35:4579-81. PMID: 2878668
2. Ho TK, Moretti ME, Schaeffer JK et al. Maternal beta-blocker usage and breast feeding in the neonate. Pediatr Res. 1999;45:67A. Abstract 385.
3. Board JA, Fierro RJ, Wasserman AJ et al. Effects of alpha- and beta-adrenergic blocking agents on serum prolactin levels in women with hyperprolactinemia and galactorrhea. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1977;127:285-7. PMID: 556882
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.
