Question

I am a breastfeeding mother and i want to know if it is safe to use Sodium pertechnetate 99mTc? Is Sodium pertechnetate 99mTc safe for nursing mother and child? Does Sodium pertechnetate 99mTc extracts into breast milk? Does Sodium pertechnetate 99mTc has any long term or short term side effects on infants? Can Sodium pertechnetate 99mTc influence milk supply or can Sodium pertechnetate 99mTc decrease milk supply in lactating mothers?

Answer by DrLact: About Sodium pertechnetate 99mTc usage in lactation

Information in this record refers to the use of Sodium pertechnetate 99mTc as a diagnostic agent. The United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission states that breastfeeding should be interrupted temporarily after administration of Sodium pertechnetate 99mTc to a nursing mother. The duration of breastfeeding interruption depends on the dose administered (see table). During the period of interruption, the breasts should be emptied regularly and completely. If the mother has expressed and saved milk prior to the examination, she can feed it to the infant during the period of nursing interruption.[1][2][3] The milk that is pumped by the mother during the time of breastfeeding interruption can either be discarded or stored refrigerated frozen and given to the infant after 10 physical half-lives, or about 60 hours, have elapsed. Mothers need not refrain from close contact with their infants after usual clinical doses.[4] Mothers concerned about the level of radioactivity in their milk could ask to have it tested at a nuclear medicine facility at their hospital. When the radioactivity is at a safe level she may resume breastfeeding. A method for measuring milk radioactivity and determining the time when a mother can safely resume breastfeeding has been published.[5] For nursing mothers who work with Tc 99m substances in their workplace, there is no need to take any precautions other than those appropriate for general radiation protection.[6]
Dose Duration of Interruption
1100 MBq (30 mCi) 24 hours[7]
440 MBq (12 mCi) 12 hours[7]
185 MBq (5 mCi) 4 hours[5]

Alternate Drugs

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.