Question

I am a breastfeeding mother and i want to know if it is safe to use Tretinoin (topical use)? Is Tretinoin (topical use) safe for nursing mother and child? Does Tretinoin (topical use) extracts into breast milk? Does Tretinoin (topical use) has any long term or short term side effects on infants? Can Tretinoin (topical use) influence milk supply or can Tretinoin (topical use) decrease milk supply in lactating mothers?

Tretinoin (topical use) lactation summary

Tretinoin (topical use) is safe in breastfeeding
  • DrLact safety Score for Tretinoin (topical use) is 1 out of 8 which is considered Safe as per our analyses.
  • A safety Score of 1 indicates that usage of Tretinoin (topical use) is mostly safe during lactation for breastfed baby.
  • Our study of different scientific research also indicates that Tretinoin (topical use) does not cause any serious side effects in breastfeeding mothers.
  • Most of scientific studies and research papers declaring usage of Tretinoin (topical use) safe in breastfeeding are based on normal dosage and may not hold true for higher dosage.
  • Score calculated using the DrLact safety Version 1.2 model, this score ranges from 0 to 8 and measures overall safety of drug in lactation. Scores are primarily calculated using publicly available case studies, research papers, other scientific journals and publically available data.

Answer by Dr. Ru: About Tretinoin (topical use) usage in lactation

Retinoid, an acid form of vitamin A. At latest update no published data on excretion into breast milk were found.It is a normal component of breastmilk. Because of the small dose used and poor absorption into plasma of most topical dermatological preparations, excretion into breastmilk in significant amount appears to be unlikely. Do not apply on the breast, otherwise, wash it off thoroughly before next feed. Systemic use (overall as an antineoplastic drug) while breastfeeding is absolutely contraindicated.

Alternate Drugs for Anti-acné preparations for topical use. ATC D10A

Adapalene(Safe)
Azelaic Acid(Safe)
Benzoyl Peroxide(Safe)
Glycolic Acid(Safe)
Metronidazole Topical(Safe)
Hydroxyacetic Acid(Safe)
Hydroxyethanoic Acid(Safe)
Adapalen(Safe)
Adapalenum(Safe)
Disclaimer: Information presented in this database is not meant as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. We do not warrant or assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Site.