Does Valtrex affect breast milk?

Understanding Valtrex and Its Impact on Breast Milk
Valtrex, the brand name for valacyclovir, is an antiviral medication commonly prescribed for the treatment of herpes virus infections, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles. For breastfeeding mothers, concerns often arise regarding the safety of medications and their potential effects on breast milk and, consequently, on the nursing infant.
Minimal Transfer to Breast Milk
Research indicates that valacyclovir is converted into acyclovir in the body, and while acyclovir does pass into breast milk, the concentration is notably low. Specifically, the amount of acyclovir found in breast milk after taking valacyclovir is less than 1% of the typical dosage that would be administered to an infant for therapeutic purposes. This minimal transfer suggests that the medication is unlikely to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants.
Safety Profile During Breastfeeding
Health authorities, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, have deemed valacyclovir safe for use during breastfeeding. They emphasize that no significant side effects have been reported in infants exposed to the drug through breast milk. Furthermore, no special precautions are necessary for mothers taking valacyclovir while nursing, reinforcing the medication’s safety profile.
Clinical Recommendations
In clinical practice, if a breastfeeding mother requires treatment with valacyclovir, healthcare providers typically support its use, given the low levels of the drug that enter breast milk. This is particularly relevant for mothers who need to manage herpes outbreaks, as untreated infections can pose risks to both the mother and the infant.
Conclusion
In summary, Valtrex is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, with minimal amounts transferring to breast milk that are unlikely to affect the infant. Mothers should always consult with their healthcare providers regarding any medications during breastfeeding, but current evidence supports the use of valacyclovir without significant concern for adverse effects in nursing infants.

How long does acyclovir stay in breastmilk?

Acyclovir Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding
The peak level was 7.3 mg/L and the drug was detectable in milk for up to 88 hours after the last dose.

What is the downside to valacyclovir?

Some people with a weak immune system who take valacyclovir may develop a condition called thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). These conditions can cause small blood clots throughout the body, reducing blood flow to organs like the brain, heart, and kidneys.

Can I take Valtrex 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.

Are antivirals safe while breastfeeding?

For women who are breastfeeding with suspected or confirmed flu, the preferred antiviral medication is oral oseltamivir. Available data indicate that oseltamivir is not easily passed to the infant in breast milk.

Can you kiss your baby if you get cold sores?

You should not kiss a baby if you have a cold sore to reduce the risk of spreading infection. Cold sores and other blisters caused by the herpes virus are at their most contagious when they burst. They remain contagious until completely healed.

Is it safe to take Valtrex while pregnant?

Valtrex’s Effect on the Mother
In fact, Valtrex is classified as a pregnancy category B medication by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which means that it is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy.

What medications drop milk supply?

For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply. So please call us if you are breastfeeding and need clarification on the safety of a medication or to see if a medication you are taking may be affecting your milk supply while breastfeeding.

Does valacyclovir affect baby?

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

Can Valtrex cause birth defects?

According to studies conducted on pregnant women taking Valtrex, the medication has not been found to be associated with an increased risk of birth defects or adverse outcomes.

What to avoid while on Valtrex?

What should I avoid while taking valacyclovir? Avoid sexual intercourse or use a latex condom to help keep you from spreading the herpes virus to others. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people. Avoid touching an infected area and then touching your eyes.