This drug given to animals throughout pregnancy at subcutaneous doses up to 10 units/kg once daily (an exposure 2 times the average human dose based on body surface area comparison) did not have any remarkable toxic effects on embryo-fetal development. Adverse effects on embryo-fetal development were only seen at maternal toxic dose levels inducing hypoglycemia. There are no controlled data in human pregnancy.

Patients with diabetes or a history of gestational diabetes should maintain good metabolic control before conception and during pregnancy. Insulin requirements may decrease during the first trimester; generally increase during the second and third trimesters, and rapidly decline after delivery. Careful monitoring of glucose control is essential.

AU TGA pregnancy category B3: Drugs which have been taken by only a limited number of pregnant women and women of childbearing age, without an increase in the frequency of malformation or other direct or indirect harmful effects on the human fetus having been observed. Studies in animals have shown evidence of an increased occurrence of fetal damage, the significance of which is considered uncertain in humans.

FDA pregnancy category C: Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the benefit outweighs the risk.

AU TGA pregnancy category: B3
US FDA pregnancy category: C

See references

Exogenous insulins, including the newer biosynthetic insulins (i.e. aspart, detemir, glargine, glulisine, lispro) appear to be excreted into breast milk. Insulin is a protein that is inactivated if taken by mouth. If absorbed, it would be destroyed in the digestive tract of the infant.

Lactation onset occurs later in women with type 1 diabetes, and there is an even greater delay in those with poor glucose control. However, once established lactation persists as long in mothers with diabetes as in mothers without. Insulin requirements are generally lower in women who breastfeed, most likely due to glucose being used for milk production.

Use is considered acceptable

Excreted into human milk: Yes

Breast-feeding mothers may require adjustments in insulin dose.

See references