Is paxlovid safe for breastfeeding moms?

Understanding Paxlovid and Its Safety for Breastfeeding Mothers
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, the use of antiviral treatments like Paxlovid has become a focal point for many, especially for breastfeeding mothers who may be concerned about the implications of medication on their infants. Paxlovid, which consists of nirmatrelvir and ritonavir, is primarily prescribed to individuals at high risk for severe disease. However, the question remains: is it safe for breastfeeding moms?
Current Guidelines and Recommendations
The prescribing guidelines for Paxlovid emphasize its use in patients who are at risk of progressing to severe COVID-19. Most breastfeeding women do not typically fall into this high-risk category, which leads to a cautious approach regarding its prescription. Without substantial evidence demonstrating safety, healthcare providers may hesitate to recommend Paxlovid widely for breastfeeding mothers.
Transfer of Medication to Breast Milk
Research on the transfer of Paxlovid components into breast milk is still limited. However, some studies indicate that nirmatrelvir does transfer into breast milk to some extent, but the levels are not considered to pose a significant risk to infants. Ritonavir, on the other hand, has been studied more extensively and is known to have low transfer rates into breast milk.
In practical terms, two breastfeeding individuals who used nirmatrelvir/ritonavir reported no adverse effects related to breastfeeding, suggesting that while the medication does enter breast milk, it may not have harmful consequences for the infant.
Expert Opinions
Experts generally agree that taking Paxlovid while breastfeeding is likely safe, particularly given the short duration of treatment (typically five days). The consensus is that the potential benefits of treating COVID-19 with Paxlovid outweigh the risks associated with its use during breastfeeding.
However, it is essential for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to discuss their specific circumstances, especially if they have underlying health conditions that may elevate their risk for severe COVID-19.
Conclusion
In summary, while there is limited data on the safety of Paxlovid for breastfeeding mothers, current evidence suggests that it is generally safe to use. The low transfer of ritonavir into breast milk and the lack of reported side effects in breastfeeding individuals who have taken the medication provide some reassurance. Nevertheless, individual health considerations should always guide the decision-making process, and mothers are encouraged to engage in open discussions with their healthcare providers about their treatment options.

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.

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.

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 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 COVID affect the breasts?

CONCLUSION. In this case, we describe one of the few known breast complications related to COVID-19 infection, specifically, the development of sterile abscesses. We report this case to highlight the associated imaging and pathologic findings.

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.

Is Paxlovid safe with breastfeeding?

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 Paxlovid with pregnancy?

Study Shows Paxlovid Can Safely Be Used to Reduce Risk of Severe COVID in People Who Are Pregnant.

Who cannot take Paxlovid?

have chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 4 or 5, including people on dialysis. have severe liver disease. have had an organ transplant or are on the organ transplant waiting list. have certain autoimmune or inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease.

How do you handle COVID-19 while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding with COVID-19

1. Wash hands using soap and water before touching their child or expressing breast milk by hand expression or with a breast pump.
2. Consider wearing a mask when in close contact with the infant, such as when feeding at the breast or from a bottle.