The Basics
What is Pancuronium?
Aminosteroid muscle relaxant.
Brand names for Pancuronium
Pavulon
How Pancuronium is classified
Muscle Relaxants, Neuromuscular Nondepolarizing Agents
Pancuronium During Pregnancy
Pancuronium 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 Pancuronium while pregnant
Animal reproduction studies have not been performed. It is not known whether PAVULON® (pancuronium bromide injection) can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. PAVULON® (pancuronium bromide injection) should be given to a pregnant woman only if the administering clinician decides that the benefits outweigh the risks. PAVULON® (pancuronium bromide injection) may be used in operative obstetrics (Cesarean section), but reversal of pancuronium may be unsatisfactory in patients receiving magnesium sulfate for toxemia of pregnancy, because magnesium salts enhance neuromuscular blockade. Dosage should usually be reduced, as indicated, in such cases. It is also recommended that the interval between use of pancuronium and delivery be reasonably short to avoid clinically significant placental transfer.
Taking Pancuronium While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Pancuronium?
No information is available on the use of pancuronium during breastfeeding. Because it is highly polar and poorly absorbed orally, it is not likely to reach the breastmilk in high concentration or to reach the bloodstream of the infant.[1][2] When a combination of anesthetic agents is used for a procedure, follow the recommendations for the most problematic medication used during the procedure.
Maternal / infant drug levels
No information is available on the use of pancuronium during breastfeeding. Because it is highly polar and poorly absorbed orally, it is not likely to reach the breastmilk in high concentration or to reach the bloodstream of the infant.[1][2] When a combination of anesthetic agents is used for a procedure, follow the recommendations for the most problematic medication used during the procedure.
Possible effects of Pancuronium on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Pancuronium
Atracurium, Cisatracurium, Rocuronium.
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. Spigset O. Anaesthetic agents and excretion in breast milk. Acta Anaesthesiol Scand. 1994;38:94-103. PMID: 8171959
2. Dalal PG, Bosak J, Berlin C. Safety of the breast-feeding infant after maternal anesthesia. Paediatr Anaesth. 2014;24:359-71. PMID: 24372776
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.
