Safety of pharmacologically induced lactation

Abstract

Pharmacologically induced lactation has the potential to help parents of all sexes who wish to breastfeed their children without a preceding pregnancy, and the interest in this possibility is increasing. A combination of hormones, physical stimulation and domperidone to mimic the hormonal changes of pregnancy and birth can be used to induce lactation. However, off-label uses of estrogen, progestin and domperidone or metoclopramide in high doses and for a long period of time have been associated with adverse drug reactions. Before prescribing drugs for induced lactation, it is important to discuss and help manage the parent's expectations regarding the outcome and, in detail, discuss the potential risks.