Question

I am a breastfeeding mother and i want to know if it is safe to use (13)C-urea breath test? Is (13)C-urea breath test safe for nursing mother and child? Does (13)C-urea breath test extracts into breast milk? Does (13)C-urea breath test has any long term or short term side effects on infants? Can (13)C-urea breath test influence milk supply or can (13)C-urea breath test decrease milk supply in lactating mothers?

(13)C-urea breath test lactation summary

(13)C-urea breath test is safe in breastfeeding
  • DrLact safety Score for (13)C-urea breath test is 1 out of 8 which is considered Safe as per our analyses.
  • A safety Score of 1 indicates that usage of (13)C-urea breath test is mostly safe during lactation for breastfed baby.
  • Our study of different scientific research also indicates that (13)C-urea breath test does not cause any serious side effects in breastfeeding mothers.
  • Most of scientific studies and research papers declaring usage of (13)C-urea breath test 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 (13)C-urea breath test usage in lactation

Carbon 13 is a natural, stable and non-radioactive isotope (Idifarm 2016, Osaka 2016) that is used to label urea for diagnostic purposes. Since the last update we have not found any published data on its excretion in breast milk. Urea is a natural component of the body and is also found in milk (Wheeler RA 1991, Ross SA 1985). The dose of urea from the breath test to rule out infection by helicobacter pylori is 100 mg, an inconsequential amount since the endogenous production of urea is 25-35 g daily (AEMPS 2004). Manufacturer's data indicate low risk for pregnancy and breastfeeding (Idifarm 2016, Isomed 2004).
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.