Can you take nitroglycerin 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.
Topical use of nitroglycerin for anal fissures by nursing mothers appears to have no adverse effects on their breastfed infants. Topical use on the nipples has been used for alleviation of Raynaud phenomenon of the nipples, but only after cessation of breastfeeding. Nitroglycerin should not be used topically on the nipples during breastfeeding. Sublingual and intravenous nitroglycerin have not been studied during breastfeeding. Observe infants for flushing and discomfort after breastfeeding.
Quoted from Nitroglycerin — Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®), National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, revised October 15, 2024.
How much nitroglycerin 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
Forty nursing mothers used nitroglycerin ointment (dosage not specified) topically for the treatment of postpartum anal fissures for durations ranging from 1 use to 12 months of intermittent use. All but 9 of the women reported side effects from therapy, primarily headache, but also dizziness or lightheadedness. None of the mothers reported any side effects in their breastfed infants.
Effects on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Frequently asked questions
Can you take nitroglycerin while breastfeeding?
Topical use of nitroglycerin for anal fissures by nursing mothers appears to have no adverse effects on their breastfed infants. 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.
Does nitroglycerin pass into breastmilk?
LactMed's measured drug levels for nitroglycerin are quoted in full on this page, under "How much gets into breastmilk".
Do I need to pump and dump after taking nitroglycerin?
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 nitroglycerin
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.