Is Paxlovid safe with breastfeeding?

Understanding Paxlovid and Breastfeeding Safety
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, treatments like Paxlovid have become crucial in managing the illness. However, for breastfeeding mothers, the question of safety regarding the use of this antiviral medication is paramount. Paxlovid, which consists of nirmatrelvir and ritonavir, has been scrutinized for its effects on lactation and infant health.
Current Guidelines and Research
Recent guidelines from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) indicate that breastfeeding can continue while taking Paxlovid. These guidelines acknowledge that while data is limited, the available evidence suggests that the amount of the antiviral that passes into breast milk is likely low. This conclusion is drawn from both animal studies and a small amount of human data, which have not indicated significant risks to breastfeeding infants.
Moreover, a review of the existing literature reveals that two breastfeeding individuals who used nirmatrelvir/ritonavir reported no adverse effects related to breastfeeding. This is encouraging news for mothers concerned about the potential impact of the medication on their infants.
Transfer of Medication to Breast Milk
It is important to note that while nirmatrelvir may transfer into breast milk to some degree, the transfer of ritonavir is well-studied and considered low. Experts suggest that a short five-day course of Paxlovid is unlikely to cause long-term harm to infants. The consensus among healthcare professionals is that the benefits of treating COVID-19 with Paxlovid outweigh the potential risks associated with breastfeeding.
Expert Opinions
Krystal Duhaney, a Registered Nurse and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, emphasizes that it is generally safe for breastfeeding mothers to take Paxlovid. However, she advises that mothers should always consult with their healthcare providers to discuss any concerns and to ensure that they are making informed decisions about their health and the health of their infants.
Conclusion
In summary, while the data on Paxlovid and breastfeeding is still evolving, current evidence suggests that it is safe for breastfeeding mothers to use this medication without significant concern for their infants. As always, individual circumstances vary, and mothers should engage in open discussions with their healthcare providers to navigate their specific health needs during this challenging time.

Can you breastfeed while on antiviral medication?

Aciclovir and breastfeeding
It is likely that only tiny amounts will get into your breast milk which would not be expected to cause any problems in your baby. Make sure that your baby does not come into contact with areas where you’ve used the medicine.

Can you take paxlovid with pregnancy?

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

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.

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.

Is paxlovid ok in 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.

Will my baby get sick if I’m sick and breastfeeding?

In fact, your body will actually start producing antibodies for those illnesses and pass those antibodies through your milk to your baby, effectively reducing the risk and severity of those illnesses to your infant and/or toddler.

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.

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.

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 antivirals for COVID?

Some groups of people should not have COVID-19 antiviral medicine. They include if you are: pregnant. breastfeeding.