The use of bromocriptine to treat severe cases of PPCM remains controversial and has not been fully studied. In a medical journey, there is a report of a woman with PPCM and in severe heart failure receiving 2.5mg of bromocriptine and recovering from an EF of 15% to 60% in 2 months. http://eurjhf.oxfordjournals.org/content/10/11/1149.full
Bromocriptine and cabergoline, prolactin inhibitors can have dangerous side effects, even fatal, so unless the patient is not responding well to Ace Inhibitors + Betablockers + diuretics, it is advisable not to use prolactin inhibitors.The use of prolactin inhibitors is due to the theory that prolactin metabolites, called vasoinhibins, can be harmful to the heart and women often report the onset or worsening of symptoms when their milk comes in.
However, another study showed that breastfeeding mothers fared better with recovery (Safirstein, et al, Int J Cardiol).
http://www.internationaljournalofcardiology.com/article/S0167-5273%2810%2900655-8/abstract
The decision to breastfeed while recovering from PPCM is a very personal decision. There are no definitive answers and decisions about breastfeeding need to be made on a case by case basis. For some women breastfeeding may hinder recovery because of prolactin metabolites, whilst for others breastfeeding may assist in recovery.
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Myheartsisters.com has been developed to raise awareness about heart failure in pregnancy (PPCM) and provide support for heart sisters through storytelling and friendship. How to Join - Join as a heart sister, cardiologist or relative of a deceased heart sister and add yourself to a map and directory listing.
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