苯巴比妥

Long-acting barbiturate due to its long half-life. Used in epilepsy as an anticonvulsant. Oral, intravenous and intramuscular administration.

Excreted in breast milk in highly variable proportions, reaching concentrations that could be clinically significant  ^{(O'Connor 2005, Shimoyama 2000, Gomita 1995, , Meyer 1988, Kaneko 1979)}. More recent authors consider the passage of phenobarbital into breast milk to be of no clinical concern. ^{(Davanzo 2013, Mercadé 2012, Harden 2009)}

Plasma levels exceeding the limits of the therapeutic range (15-40 µg/ml) have been measured in the plasma of infants born to mothers taking phenobarbital. ^{(Pediamecum 2025, Pote 2004, Gomita 1995, Kuhnz 1988)}

Sedation described in infants of mothers taking it but also withdrawal syndrome with spasms after sudden weaning, mostly in newborns. ^{(Rauchenzauner 2011, Kuhnz 1988, Juul 1969, Knott 1987)}

Should be used with caution during breastfeeding ^{(Pennell 2006)}. To monitor alertness and sufficient feeding in infants. Monitoring of plasma levels in the infant may be indicated, both if sedation occurs and to guide progressive weaning.

Several medical societies and expert authors consider the use of phenobarbital during breastfeeding to be compatible with careful monitoring of the infant, including plasma levels if there are signs of drowsiness, poor feeding or poor weight gain. ^{(Crettenand 2018, Veiby 2015, Davanzo 2013, Mercadé 2012, Rauchenzauner 2011, Pack 2006, O'Brien 2005, Moretti 2000)}

WHO essential medicines list: compatible with breastfeeding. ^{(WHO-UNICEF 2002)}

Other antiepileptic drugs with more favourable pharmacological profiles are preferable during breastfeeding. ^{(LactMed, Hale, Rubin 2004, Hägg 2000, Pons 1994)}, especially if the mother was not taking phenobarbital during pregnancy.

See below the information of this related product:

• Maternal Epilepsy (Fairly safe. Mild or unlikely adverse effects. Compatible under certain circumstances. Follow-up recommended. Read Commentary.)