Petogen (Bromelain) and Breastfeeding: Safety Profile and Contraceptive Interaction

Petogen is a brand name for bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme from pineapple stem. Used for inflammation, edema, post-surgical recovery.

Breastfeeding Safety

• Milk transfer: Not studied directly. As a large protein (~24 kDa), oral bioavailability is negligible; unlikely to reach infant systemically as active enzyme.
• Clinical guidance (Hale's Medications & Mothers' Milk): Likely compatible (L2–L3). Short-term use (≤14 days at 150 mg/day or ≤30 days BID) considered low risk.
• Caution: Prolonged/high-dose use lacks data; monitor infant for GI upset, allergy.

Important Drug Interaction

Petogen may reduce efficacy of estrogen-containing oral contraceptives. Bromelain can increase estrogen metabolism. Use backup contraception (condoms) during and 1 week after petogen course.

Other Considerations

• Anticoagulant/antiplatelet effect — caution with warfarin, DOACs, aspirin.
• Allergy risk: pineapple, latex, bee venom cross-reactivity.
• Surgery: stop 2 weeks prior (bleeding risk).

Always inform your prescriber and lactation consultant about all supplements.