Can paxlovid be taken if breastfeeding?

Can Paxlovid Be Taken While Breastfeeding?
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, so too does the understanding of treatments available for those affected by the virus. One such treatment is Paxlovid, an oral antiviral medication composed of nirmatrelvir and ritonavir, which has been shown to be effective in treating mild to moderate cases of COVID-19. However, for breastfeeding mothers, the question arises: is it safe to take Paxlovid while nursing?
Current Guidelines and Research
According to recent guidelines from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), it is generally considered acceptable for breastfeeding mothers to continue nursing while taking Paxlovid. These guidelines acknowledge that while data on the safety of Paxlovid during breastfeeding is limited, the available evidence suggests that the amount of the medication that passes into breast milk is likely minimal.
A small number of cases have been documented where individuals used nirmatrelvir/ritonavir while breastfeeding without reporting any adverse effects related to breastfeeding. This is encouraging, as it indicates that the risks may be low, although comprehensive studies are still lacking.
Expert Opinions
Experts in maternal and child health, including lactation consultants, support the notion that Paxlovid can be taken while breastfeeding. Krystal Duhaney, a Registered Nurse and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, emphasizes that while the data is not extensive, the consensus among health professionals leans towards the safety of using Paxlovid during lactation.
Moreover, the limited human data available, combined with animal studies, suggests that the potential transfer of the antiviral into breast milk is not significant enough to pose a risk to breastfeeding infants.
Conclusion
In summary, while the evidence surrounding the use of Paxlovid during breastfeeding is not exhaustive, current guidelines and expert opinions suggest that it is generally safe for nursing mothers to take this medication. As always, it is crucial for individuals to consult with their healthcare providers to discuss their specific circumstances and any potential risks. This personalized approach ensures that both the health of the mother and the infant are prioritized during treatment for COVID-19.

Can a breastfeeding mom take Paxlovid?

Paxlovid and breastfeeding
The manufacturers advise that breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Paxlovid and for 7 days after the last dose. Ritonavir passes into breast milk in tiny amounts, but it is not known how much nirmatrelvir passes into breast milk.

Can you take antiviral medication while breastfeeding?

If your doctor or health visitor says that your baby is healthy, it’s OK to take aciclovir tablets or liquid while breastfeeding. Aciclovir from the tablets or liquid passes into breast milk in very small amounts, and it is unlikely to cause any side effects in your baby.

How does COVID-19 affect breastfeeding?

Current evidence suggests that breast milk is not a source of transmission of SARS-CoV-2. When possible, breastfeeding mothers with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 should continue to breastfeed while taking hygiene precautions. This advice is regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status.

What not to eat or drink when taking Paxlovid?

Is there any food or drink I need to avoid? You can eat and drink normally while you’re taking Paxlovid.

What foods should I avoid while taking Paxlovid?

Can I drink alcohol while taking Paxlovid? It’s not known if alcohol affects Paxlovid. Is there any food or drink I need to avoid? You can eat and drink normally while you’re taking Paxlovid.

Can I sleep with my baby if I have COVID?

If you show symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) try not to cough or sneeze on your baby. Make sure they are in their own separate sleep space such as a cot or Moses basket in the same room as you for all day and night sleeps.

Which patients should not take Paxlovid?

Who may not be able to take Paxlovid

• are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding.
• have ever had an allergic reaction to Paxlovid, or any other medicine.
• have problems with your kidneys.
• have problems with your liver.
• are intolerant to lactose or galactose – nirmatrelvir contains a lot of lactose.

Do viruses affect breast milk?

Infectious organisms can reach the breast milk either by secretion in the fluid or cellular components of breast milk or by contamination of the milk at the time of or after expression. A reasonable mechanism of infection via breast milk should be evident and proved through either animal or human studies.

What is the downside of taking Paxlovid?

Paxlovid may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking Paxlovid and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction. Severe Skin Reactions.

Can breastfeeding moms take antivirals for COVID?

Some groups of people should not have COVID-19 antiviral medicine. They include if you are: pregnant. breastfeeding.