Question

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

Metronidazole Topical lactation summary

Metronidazole Topical is safe in breastfeeding
  • DrLact safety Score for Metronidazole Topical is 1 out of 8 which is considered Safe as per our analyses.
  • A safety Score of 1 indicates that usage of Metronidazole Topical is mostly safe during lactation for breastfed baby.
  • Our study of different scientific research also indicates that Metronidazole Topical does not cause any serious side effects in breastfeeding mothers.
  • Most of scientific studies and research papers declaring usage of Metronidazole Topical 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 Metronidazole Topical usage in lactation

Used for treatment of acne (Gel) and vaginitis (Gel, Ovules) Significant levels in breast milk are unlikely because of low content of Metronidazole in products for topical use (less than 1%) and low absorption by vaginal mucosa (Ovules: 25%, Gel: 56%). Through skin it is not absorbed at all. Like most medications for topical use, a poor absorption make it compatible with breastfeeding. Widely used for treatment of Giardia lamblia infections, even in small infants, without adverse effects reported. Metronidazole may produce a red discoloration of corporal fluids and bitter flavor of the milk with no harm effect on the child.

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

Adapalene(Safe)
Azelaic Acid(Safe)
Benzoyl Peroxide(Safe)
Glycolic Acid(Safe)
Tretinoin (topical use)(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.