Is it safe to take valaciclovir while breastfeeding?

Understanding Valaciclovir and Breastfeeding Safety
Valaciclovir, commonly known by its brand name Valtrex, is an antiviral medication primarily used to treat infections caused by certain types of viruses, including herpes simplex and varicella-zoster. For breastfeeding mothers, the question of whether it is safe to take valaciclovir is crucial, especially considering the health of both the mother and the infant.
Safety Profile During Breastfeeding
Research indicates that valaciclovir is generally considered safe for use while breastfeeding. The key point is that the dosage of acyclovir, the active metabolite of valaciclovir, found in breast milk is less than 1% of a typical infant dosage. This minimal transfer means that it is unlikely to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants .
Moreover, no special precautions are required when a breastfeeding mother is prescribed valaciclovir. Studies have shown that maternal administration of this medication does not pose significant risks to infants. This is particularly reassuring for mothers who need to manage viral infections while ensuring their babies remain healthy.
Consultation with Healthcare Providers
While the available evidence supports the safety of valaciclovir during breastfeeding, it is essential for mothers to engage in discussions with their healthcare providers. The decision to use any medication should always involve weighing the potential benefits against any risks. Healthcare professionals can provide personalized advice based on the mother’s health status and the specific circumstances surrounding her treatment.
Conclusion
In summary, valaciclovir is deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers, with negligible amounts transferred to breast milk and no expected adverse effects on infants. However, as with any medication, it is advisable for mothers to consult their healthcare providers to make informed decisions tailored to their individual health needs. This proactive approach ensures that both mother and child can navigate health challenges effectively and safely.

Does valacyclovir affect baby?

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

Does valacyclovir affect 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.

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.

Can you take Valtrex for shingles while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding while taking acyclovir/valacyclovir:
Acyclovir enters breast milk in small amounts. Acyclovir is commonly given to newborns and does not typically cause problems for babies. If you are applying acyclovir cream or ointment directly on your breast, clean the area well before nursing.

When should you not take valacyclovir?

Valacyclovir may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking valacyclovir and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction. Central Nervous System (CNS) Problems. Valacyclovir may affect your central nervous system (CNS).

Can I take antivirals while breastfeeding?

Aciclovir and 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.

Is it okay to take valacyclovir while pregnant?

Use of acyclovir/valacyclovir is not expected to increase the chance of birth defects above the background risk. The manufacturer and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) looked at the effects of acyclovir on the developing fetus. No increase in birth defects was seen in over 500 births.

Is it safe to take valacyclovir in the first trimester of pregnancy?

No increase in birth defects was seen in over 500 births. Also, a separate study found no increase in birth defects in over 1,500 infants exposed to acyclovir and over 200 infants exposed to valacyclovir during the first trimester of pregnancy.

How long does valacyclovir stay in your system?

This means that most of the valacyclovir and its metabolites should be eliminated from the system within approximately 13.75 to 18.15 hours after the last dose. The rate of elimination is closely tied to renal clearance, emphasizing the importance of monitoring based on patient age and renal function.

Does breast milk have antiviral properties?

Specific Antiviral Properties
The direct antimicrobial action of breast milk is expressed through all kinds of immunoglobulin (sIgA, IgA, IgG, IgM, IgE, IgD) compounds, with anti-infective activity already known for many decades [8]. The IgG and IgM antibodies derive from the maternal immune response.