Question

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

DSS lactation summary

DSS usage has low risk in breastfeeding
  • DrLact safety Score for DSS is 3 out of 8 which is considered Low Risk as per our analyses.
  • A safety Score of 3 indicates that usage of DSS may cause some minor side effects in breastfed baby.
  • Our study of different scientific research indicates that DSS may cause moderate to no side effects in lactating mother.
  • Most of scientific studies and research papers declaring usage of DSS low risk in breastfeeding are based on normal dosage and may not hold true for higher dosage.
  • While using DSS We suggest monitoring child for possible reactions. It is also important to understand that side effects vary largely based on age of breastfed child and time of medication in addition to 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 DSS usage in lactation

One case of hemolytic anemia has been described. Check-up for development of jaundice in the infant. Avoid its use in patients affected of G-6-PD deficiency. American Academy of Pediatrics: Maternal Medication Usually Compatible With Breastfeeding.

Answer by DrLact: About DSS usage in lactation

DSS can be used during breastfeeding; however, hemolytic anemia might occur, especially in newborn infants and in those with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. The time of greatest risk for hemolysis in fullterm newborns without G6PD deficiency might be as short as 8 days after birth.[1] One source states that use of DSS in the treatment of leprosy is advantageous because it kills the organisms in breastmilk.[2] Monitor the infant for signs of hemolysis, especially in newborn or premature breastfed infants. Topical DSS gel used to treat acne has not been studied during breastfeeding. According to the manufacturer, topical DSS gel results in a blood level of 1% that of a 100 mg oral dose. It is unlikely that the topical gel would affect the breastfed infant, but the manufacturer states that it should not be used during nursing. Until more data are available, an alternative topical agent might be preferred.

DSS Side Effects in Breastfeeding

A case of mild hemolytic anemia occurred in a 41-day-old breastfed infant whose mother was taking DSS 50 mg daily. The hemolysis was probably caused by DSS in milk.[3] A woman with leprosy took DSS, clofazimine and rifampin during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Her infant developed skin discoloration attributed to clofazimine which reversed 3 months after cessation of breastfeeding.[5]

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Rifaximin(Safe)
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Atovaquone(Low Risk)
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Rifabutin(Low Risk)
Dapsone(Low Risk)
Rifampin(Safe)
Clofazimine(Low Risk)
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.