Does acyclovir affect breast milk?

Acyclovir and Breast Milk: What You Need to Know
Acyclovir, an antiviral medication commonly used to treat infections caused by certain types of viruses, raises important questions regarding its safety for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. As more women are prescribed this medication, understanding its effects on breast milk is crucial for informed health decisions.
Minimal Transfer to Breast Milk
Research indicates that acyclovir does transfer into breast milk, but the levels are quite low. Studies have shown that even at the highest maternal dosages, the concentration of acyclovir in breast milk is only about 1% of a typical infant dosage. This means that the amount of acyclovir an infant would ingest through breastfeeding is significantly lower than what would be considered therapeutic for infants.
For instance, one study reported that the concentration of acyclovir in breast milk ranged from 4.16 to 5.81 micrograms/mL, which translates to an estimated infant dosage of approximately 0.73 mg/kg/day. This low level suggests that breastfeeding while on acyclovir is unlikely to cause any adverse effects in infants.
Topical Acyclovir Considerations
For mothers using topical acyclovir, the implications are even more reassuring. When applied to small areas of the body away from the breast, topical acyclovir poses no risk to breastfeeding infants. This is particularly relevant for mothers treating localized herpes simplex virus infections, as they can continue breastfeeding without concern for their infants’ safety.
Clinical Recommendations
Health professionals generally agree that the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh the minimal risks associated with acyclovir exposure through breast milk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) supports the continuation of breastfeeding for mothers with herpes simplex virus, provided they take appropriate precautions.
In summary, while acyclovir does enter breast milk, the concentrations are low enough that it is not expected to harm breastfed infants. Mothers prescribed this medication can feel confident in their ability to continue breastfeeding, ensuring both their health and that of their child.

What should you not mix with acyclovir?

Cautions with other medicines

• cimetidine, a medicine for stomach ulcers.
• mycophenolate mofetil, a medicine given after organ transplants.
• probenecid, a medicine for gout.
• aminophylline or theophylline, medicines for asthma.

Which drug decreases milk supply?

Bromocriptine is usually not used during breastfeeding because it suppresses lactation. The indication of lactation suppression has been withdrawn in the U.S. and discouraged in other countries because it increases the risk of maternal stroke, seizures, cardiovascular disorders, death and possibly psychosis.

Can you take acyclovir while breastfeeding?

Herpes can be a serious, life-threatening infection for a newborn. Cold sores occur commonly around the time of delivery, so it is important to treat cold sores aggressively to prevent transmission to a newborn baby. Aciclovir cream, aciclovir or valaciclovir tablets are all considered safe while breastfeeding.

Does valacyclovir pass through breast milk?

Only very small amounts of aciclovir have been found in breast milk as a result of valaciclovir administration, and the poor oral bioavailability of aciclovir will limit the amount the infant can absorb from breast milk. Side effects in the breastfed infant would not be expected.

What are the effects of acyclovir on a baby?

Common acyclovir side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms usually disappear as your child’s body adjusts to the medication. Other common side effects include loss of appetite and headache.

What are the nursing implications of acyclovir?

Acyclovir and valacyclovir can cause neurological side effects, including agitation, tremors, confusion, and myoclonus; more rarely, clients can develop hallucinations, and even encephalopathy or seizures. Acyclovir and valacyclovir can also lead to thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, and hemolytic uremic syndrome.

What medications should be avoided while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

What medication dries up breast milk?

Women sometimes to ask for a tablet to stop their milk supply. This medication works best if it is taken within 12- 24 hours of your baby’s birth. The medication is not routinely prescribed in hospital due to the many side effects and health risks with this medication. The medication is called cabergoline (Dostinex®).

Why is Zyrtec not recommended for breastfeeding?

However, caution is advised for cetirizine use while breastfeeding due to the theoretical risk of CNS depression based on limited human data and risk of decreased milk production.

Does valacyclovir affect baby?

Answer Studies have shown that the use of acyclovir or valacyclovir is not associated with an increase in birth defects.