Certified Diabetes Educator Practice Exam

Sitagliptin is the medication that is generally contraindicated for breastfeeding women. While some medications may have limited data supporting their safety during lactation, sitagliptin, a DPP-4 inhibitor used for managing type 2 diabetes, has not been as extensively studied in breastfeeding populations compared to other antidiabetic medications. Due to the lack of sufficient evidence regarding its safety and the potential risk of adverse effects on a nursing infant, healthcare providers often exercise caution and may recommend alternative medications that have a more established safety profile during breastfeeding.

In contrast, metformin, insulin, and glyburide have been more widely studied and are generally considered safer options for breastfeeding women. Metformin is commonly used and has shown low levels in breast milk, making it safer for nursing mothers. Insulin does not significantly enter breast milk, allowing breastfeeding to continue without concern for the infant. Glyburide has also been deemed safe in nursing mothers, with its low concentration in breast milk posing limited risks to infants. Therefore, sitagliptin's uncertainty surrounding its effects in nursing infants is the basis for its contraindication in breastfeeding women.