Sign Out
The safety of fentanyl in pregnancy has not been established. Studies in animals have shown reproductive toxicity, with impaired fertility in rats (see Pharmacology: Toxicology: Preclinical safety data under Actions). The potential risk for humans is unknown. Fentanyl should only be used during pregnancy when clearly necessary.
Long-term treatment during pregnancy may cause withdrawal symptoms in the new-born infant.
Fentanyl should not be used during labour and delivery (including caesarean section) since fentanyl crosses the placenta and may cause respiratory depression in the foetus or in the new-born infant.
Breast-feeding: Fentanyl is excreted into breast milk and may cause sedation and respiratory depression in the breast-fed child.
Fentanyl should not be used by breastfeeding women and breastfeeding should not be restarted until at least 5 days after the last administration of fentanyl.
