The Basics
What is Physostigmine?
Physostigmine is used to treat glaucoma.
Brand names for Physostigmine
Physostigmine
How Physostigmine is classified
Cholinesterase Inhibitors, Parasympathomimetics
Physostigmine During Pregnancy
Physostigmine 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 Physostigmine while pregnant
Safe use in pregnancy and lactation has not been established; therefore, use in pregnant women, nursing mothers or women who may become pregnant requires that possible benefits be weighed against possible hazards to mother and child.
Taking Physostigmine While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Physostigmine?
No information is available on the use of physostigmine during breastfeeding.
Maternal / infant drug levels
No information is available on the use of physostigmine during breastfeeding.
Possible effects of Physostigmine on milk supply
Relevant published information in nursing mothers was not found as of the revision date. In animals, cholinergic drugs increase oxytocin release,[2] and have variable effects on serum prolactin.[3] Physostigmine increases serum prolactin in humans.[4][5] The prolactin level in a mother with established lactation may not affect her ability to breastfeed.
Possible alternatives to Physostigmine
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. Clarke G, Fall CH, Lincoln DW, Merrick LP. Effects of cholinoceptor antagonists on the suckling-induced and experimentally evoked release of oxytocin. Br J Pharmacol. 1978;63:519-27. PMID: 566601
2. Muller EE, Locatelli V, Cella S et al. Prolactin-lowering and -releasing drugs: mechanisms of action and therapeutic applications. Drugs. 1983;25:399-432. PMID: 6133737
3. Risch SC, Janowsky DS, Siever LJ al. Correlated cholinomimetic-stimulated beta-endorphin and prolactin release in humans. Peptides. 1982;3:319-22. PMID: 6289276
4. Risch SC, Janowsky DS, Siever LJ et al. Cholinomimetic-induced co-release of prolactin and beta-endorphin in man. Psychopharmacol Bull. 1982;18:21-5. PMID: 6296908
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.
