Is Paxlovid ok in breastfeeding?

Is Paxlovid Safe for Breastfeeding Mothers?
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, many breastfeeding mothers are understandably concerned about the safety of medications like Paxlovid, a treatment for COVID-19. Paxlovid, which contains the active ingredients nirmatrelvir and ritonavir, has been a focal point of discussion regarding its use during breastfeeding.
Limited Evidence but No Reported Side Effects
Current information on the use of Paxlovid while breastfeeding is somewhat limited. However, preliminary reports suggest that it is generally considered safe. According to a fact sheet from MotherToBaby, two individuals who used nirmatrelvir/ritonavir while breastfeeding did not report any side effects related to breastfeeding. This indicates that, at least in these cases, the medication did not adversely affect the breastfeeding experience or the infants involved.
Ritonavir’s Established Safety Profile
While specific data on nirmatrelvir is scarce, there is more extensive information available regarding ritonavir, one of the components of Paxlovid. Ritonavir has been used in various contexts, including for the treatment of HIV, and has a more established safety profile during breastfeeding. This background provides some reassurance to mothers considering Paxlovid as a treatment option.
Expert Recommendations
Health professionals generally advise that breastfeeding mothers can take Paxlovid if needed, particularly if they are at high risk for severe COVID-19. The benefits of treating a COVID-19 infection, which can be serious, often outweigh potential risks associated with the medication. A registered nurse and lactation consultant noted that while there are considerations to keep in mind, the consensus leans towards the safety of using Paxlovid during breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, while the evidence surrounding Paxlovid’s use in breastfeeding mothers is limited, the available information suggests that it is generally safe. Mothers should consult with their healthcare providers to discuss their specific circumstances and any potential risks. The overarching goal remains to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the infant during these challenging times.

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.

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.

Can breastfeeding moms 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 meds while breastfeeding?

Recommendations. Aciclovir is the preferred antiviral for treating herpes simplex and varicella zoster as there are only very small amounts present in breast milk. Valaciclovir is also an acceptable alternative, since it is converted to aciclovir before passing into breast milk.

Does your milk supply drop when you are sick?

Getting sick. Just catching a virus or bug such as the flu, a cold, or a stomach virus won’t decrease your milk supply. However, related symptoms such as fatigue, diarrhea, vomiting, or decreased appetite definitely can.

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.

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.

When is Paxlovid not recommended?

PAXLOVID is not recommended in patients with severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min) until more data are available; the appropriate dosage for patients with severe renal impairment has not been determined [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Is Paxlovid safe in pregnancy?

Research suggests Paxlovid is likely safe to take if you’re pregnant. But more studies are needed to confirm this. Experts currently recommend Paxlovid as the preferred treatment for mild-to-moderate COVID during pregnancy.

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.