The Basics
What is Orlistat?
Used to help people lose weight.
Brand names for Orlistat
Xenical
How Orlistat is classified
Enzyme Inhibitors, Anti-Obesity Agents
Orlistat During Pregnancy
Orlistat 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 Orlistat while pregnant
N/A
Taking Orlistat While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Orlistat?
Because orlistat is poorly absorbed orally, it is unlikely that any orlistat is excreted into milk or absorbed by the infant. Therefore, it is unlikely to adversely affect the breastfed infant.
Maternal / infant drug levels
Because orlistat is poorly absorbed orally, it is unlikely that any orlistat is excreted into milk or absorbed by the infant. Therefore, it is unlikely to adversely affect the breastfed infant.
Possible effects of Orlistat on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Orlistat
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.
