statins and breastfeeding

Some lipid-lowering medicines can be used during breastfeeding with caution (1):

• if possible, however, the preferred option would be to postpone lipid-lowering therapy until after the exclusive breastfeeding period.

If statin therapy is required then the preferred options are:

• either rosuvastatin, pravastatin or atorvastatin - since some evidence is available to support their use.
• simvastatin or ezetimibe can also be used with caution

If lipid-lowering therapy is taken whilst breastfeeding, precautionary monitoring of infant growth and weight gain is recommended.

Reference:

1. NHS Specialist Pharmacy Service (July 2026). Using lipid-lowering medicines while breastfeeding.