Trihexyphenidyl

[Amy Ingleby]

Hi

I'm a feeding co-ordinator on a Neonatal unit in the UK. I am currently supporting the mum of a 34 weeker who would like to breastfeed. Mum has severe dystonia in all four limbs and takes Trihexyphenidyl 30mg BD. Due to the lack of research surrounding Trihexyphenidyl and breastfeeding I have so far held off giving baby any EBM.
I was wondering if anybody else had any information on the safety of this drug or had come across breastfeeding mothers taking this drug or of any new research that has come out surrounding it?

Many thanks
Amy Ingleby

[admin]

Amy:

Trihexyphenidyl is a unique anticholinergic, that passes the blood-brain barrier, hence its use in Parkinsonian syndrome, etc. We do not have breastfeeding data on this drug, but I expect small amounts might reach the milk compartment. Side effects in the infant include: drowsiness, blurred vision, constipation, xerostomia, and perhaps urinary retention.

I doubt these are likely to occur, but just be aware for their presence.

Tom Hale Ph.D.l