Is it safe to take valacyclovir while breastfeeding?

Understanding Valacyclovir and Breastfeeding Safety
As new mothers navigate the complexities of breastfeeding, one common concern is the safety of medications during this period. Valacyclovir, an antiviral medication primarily used to treat infections caused by certain types of viruses, including herpes simplex and shingles, often comes into question. The good news for breastfeeding mothers is that current research indicates that valacyclovir is generally considered safe to use while nursing.
Minimal Transfer to Breast Milk
Research shows that when a breastfeeding mother takes valacyclovir, the amount of the drug that transfers into breast milk is minimal. Specifically, the dosage of acyclovir—valacyclovir’s active metabolite—in breast milk is less than 1% of a typical infant dosage. This low level of transfer suggests that it is unlikely to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants .
No Special Precautions Required
Health professionals agree that no special precautions are necessary when a breastfeeding mother is prescribed valacyclovir. The consensus from multiple studies indicates that the medication does not pose significant risks to infants. In fact, valacyclovir has been studied extensively, with findings showing no reported birth defects associated with its use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Clinical Insights
In clinical settings, valacyclovir has been deemed compatible with breastfeeding. For instance, a study focusing on maternal administration of valacyclovir in conjunction with antiretroviral therapy for HIV-1 prevention found that it was safe for both mothers and infants. This reinforces the notion that the benefits of treating viral infections with valacyclovir can outweigh potential risks during breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, valacyclovir is a safe option for breastfeeding mothers needing antiviral treatment. The negligible amount that enters breast milk, combined with the absence of adverse effects reported in infants, supports its use. However, as with any medication, it is always advisable for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions tailored to their specific health needs.

Is valacyclovir the same as Valtrex?

The antivirals acyclovir (generic for Zovirax and Sitavig) and valacyclovir (generic for Valtrex) are used to treat or prevent infections caused by the herpes simplex, herpes zoster, and varicella-zoster viruses.

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).

How long does acyclovir stay in your breast milk?

Drug Levels and Effects
A woman who was 6 weeks postpartum received intravenous acyclovir 300 mg (5 mg/kg) three times daily for 5 days. Milk samples were taken every 6 hours after the last dose. The peak level was 7.3 mg/L and the drug was detectable in milk for up to 88 hours after the last dose.

How many mg of valacyclovir can I take while pregnant?

A Cochrane review of seven randomized controlled trials with 1,249 participants found that women with a primary or recurrent episode of genital HSV infection who received antiviral prophylaxis with acyclovir (400 mg three times per day) or valacyclovir (500 mg twice per day) starting at 36 weeks of gestation were …

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.

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 valacyclovir affect baby?

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

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.

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.

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.