Selegiline Hydrochloride

It is an irreversible selective inhibitor of monoamine oxidase type B (MAOI-B), an enzyme involved in the metabolic degradation of dopamine in the brain. Potentiates the effects of levodopa and is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease orally once or twice daily. Use in depression in the form of a transdermal patch every 24 hours.

At the date of the last update we did not find any published data on its excretion in breast milk.

Its very high percentage of protein binding make it highly unlikely that significant quantities will pass into breast milk.

Plasma levels in an infant whose mother was treated with transdermal patches 6 mg daily were undetectable. ^{(Bauer 2017)}
No long-term developmental problems have been observed in two infants of mothers treated with transdermal or oral selegiline. ^{(Bauer 2017, Kupsch 1998)}

Selegiline decreases the production of prolactin ^{(Kodesh 2003, Calabresi 1993, Perényi 1983)} and has been used to inhibit non-puerperal galactorrhea. ^{(Sas 1986)}

By increasing the production of dopamine, it inhibits the secretion of prolactin and may decrease milk production, especially during the first weeks after delivery. After the first month and/or when lactation is well established, milk production does not depend as much on prolactin levels: the stimulation of the infant's suckling and regular emptying of the breast are usually sufficient to maintain lactation. ^{(Messinis 1985)}

If this drug is used during lactation, it is advisable to monitor the production of breast milk.

Until more published data is known about this drug in relation to breastfeeding, known safer alternatives are preferable, especially during the neonatal period and in the event of prematurity.