Is Valtrex safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding Valtrex and Breastfeeding Safety
Valtrex, the brand name for valacyclovir, is an antiviral medication commonly prescribed for the treatment of herpes virus infections, including cold sores and genital herpes. For breastfeeding mothers, the safety of using Valtrex is a significant concern, and recent studies provide reassuring insights.
Safety Profile of Valtrex During Breastfeeding
Research indicates that Valtrex is generally considered safe for use while breastfeeding. According to the Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed), the amount of valacyclovir that passes into breast milk is minimal—less than 1% of a typical infant dosage. This low transfer rate suggests that it is unlikely to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. Furthermore, studies have shown that even when mothers take valacyclovir, the concentration of the drug in breast milk is so low that it would not be expected to harm a nursing baby.
Clinical Studies and Recommendations
Several major studies have been conducted to assess the effects of acyclovir and valacyclovir during breastfeeding. These studies, which included participant pools ranging from 200 to over 1,500 births, reported no significant adverse effects or birth defects associated with the use of these medications. The consensus among healthcare professionals is that no special precautions are necessary when a breastfeeding mother is prescribed Valtrex.
Practical Considerations for Nursing Mothers
While the evidence supports the safety of Valtrex during breastfeeding, it is always advisable for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any medication. Individual health circumstances can vary, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on the mother’s health history and the specific situation.
In summary, Valtrex is widely regarded as a safe option for breastfeeding mothers, with minimal risk to infants. The low levels of the drug found in breast milk and the absence of reported adverse effects in studies bolster this conclusion, allowing mothers to manage their herpes infections without undue concern for their nursing babies.

How long after taking Valtrex are you contagious?

Do cold sores stop being contagious after taking Valtrex? No, cold sores don’t stop being contagious until after they are completely healed. Valtrex prevents the virus from growing and spreading, speeds up the healing process, and significantly reduces the period you remain contagious.

How much Valtrex gets into breastmilk?

With 500 mg valaciclovir administered every 12 hours, the median concentration of acyclovir in breast milk would be 2.24 μg/mL. Assuming 750 mL of breast milk production and neonatal ingestion per day, an average of 1.68 mg/d of acyclovir would be ingested by a breastfeeding infant.

Is it safe to breastfeed while taking valacyclovir?

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.

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.

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 while pregnant?

Valtrex’s Effect on the Mother
According to studies conducted on pregnant women taking Valtrex, the medication has not been found to be associated with an increased risk of birth defects or adverse outcomes.

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.

What is the downside to valacyclovir?

Some people with a weak immune system who take valacyclovir may develop a condition called thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). These conditions can cause small blood clots throughout the body, reducing blood flow to organs like the brain, heart, and kidneys.

Why is my wife taking Valtrex?

Valacyclovir is used to treat herpes virus infections, including herpes labialis (also known as cold sores), herpes zoster (also known as shingles), and herpes simplex (also known as genital herpes) in adults. It is also used to treat chickenpox and cold sores in children.

Is Valtrex safe in the first trimester?

According to studies conducted on pregnant women taking Valtrex, the medication has not been found to be associated with an increased risk of birth defects or adverse outcomes.