Can you take formoterol while breastfeeding?
What LactMed says
The National Library of Medicine’s own summary, quoted in full. We do not write a verdict of our own on this question, and we do not compress theirs into a label.
Although no published data exist on the use of formoterol by inhaler during lactation, data from the related drug, terbutaline, indicate that very little is expected to be excreted into breastmilk.[1-3] The authors of several reviews and expert guidelines agree that use of inhaled bronchodilators is acceptable during breastfeeding because of the low bioavailability and maternal serum levels after use.[4-8]
Quoted from Formoterol — Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®), National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, revised January 15, 2026.
What LactMed would consider instead
LactMed ends this record by naming the drugs it would consider in place of formoterol. Whether any of them fits depends on what you are treating — this is the database’s list, not a recommendation from us.
How much formoterol gets into breastmilk
Maternal Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
What has been seen in breastfed infants
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Effects on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Frequently asked questions
Can you take formoterol while breastfeeding?
What the NIH's Drugs and Lactation Database says about Formoterol while breastfeeding — quoted in full. The full record is quoted on this page, and the decision is one to make with the person who prescribed it — LactMed itself states it is not a substitute for professional judgement.
What can I take instead of formoterol while breastfeeding?
LactMed lists Salmeterol as alternate drugs to consider. That is the database's own list for this drug — whether any of them suits you depends on what you are treating.
Does formoterol pass into breastmilk?
LactMed's measured drug levels for formoterol are quoted in full on this page, under "How much gets into breastmilk".
Do I need to pump and dump after taking formoterol?
LactMed does not frame its records that way — it reports measured drug levels in milk and what has been observed in breastfed infants, which is what this page quotes. "Pump and dump" advice for a specific drug and dose should come from your clinician or a pharmacist, not from a general rule.
More on formoterol
LactMed states that the information it presents is not a substitute for professional judgement, and that you should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. Nothing on this page is medical advice.