Hi,

In general, ACE inhibitors have a small molecular size and so their transfer to breast milk is possible, hence we do not prescribe them for breastfeeding mothers. Apart from the theoretical risk of profound neonatal hypotension, ACEI/ARBs can impair renal growth in the first 3 months of life.

Hope this helps.

Qin Xiang

Dr.Qin, one of the sources(Lactmed) does mention that minimal amount is excreted in the milk, so it is ok to use while breastfeeding, doesn't that count ? Or even if a small amount is excreted, this is still dangerous ?

Studies show that Enalapril and enalaprilat have been detected in human breast milk; because of potential for serious ADRs in breastfed infant, including hypotension, hyperkalemia and renal impairment, there it is preferred not to use enalapril while breast feeding.

Source: @Medscape

Thanks Dr.Asmat!

A pregnant women should not take enalapril because it might cause birth defects and abnormalities in infant.

Thanks Ambrosia!