The Basics
What is Metyrapone?
Used in the diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency and occasionally in the treatment of Cushing’s syndrome.
Brand names for Metyrapone
Metopirone
How Metyrapone is classified
Antimetabolites, Enzyme Inhibitors
Metyrapone During Pregnancy
Metyrapone 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 Metyrapone while pregnant
N/A
Taking Metyrapone While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Metyrapone?
Evidence from two patients indicate that amounts of metyrapone and its active metabolite in breastmilk are very small and unlikely to adversely affect a breastfed infant. Exposure of the infant can be markedly decreased by avoiding nursing for 2 to 2.5 hours after each dose.
Maternal / infant drug levels
Evidence from two patients indicate that amounts of metyrapone and its active metabolite in breastmilk are very small and unlikely to adversely affect a breastfed infant. Exposure of the infant can be markedly decreased by avoiding nursing for 2 to 2.5 hours after each dose.
Possible effects of Metyrapone on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date. Women taking metyrapone chronically for suppression of hypercorticism associated with Cushing’s syndrome may have other hormonal abnormalities that might interfere with lactation.
Possible alternatives to Metyrapone
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. Hotham NJ, Ilett KF, Hackett LP et al. Transfer of metyrapone and its metabolite, rac-metyrapol, into breast milk. J Hum Lact. 2009;25:451-4. PMID: 19759353
2. Duke ME, Britten FL, Pretorius CJ et al. Maternal metyrapone use during breastfeeding: Safe for the breastfed infant. J Endocr Soc. 2019;3:973-8. PMID: 31041428
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.
