Question

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

Pimecrolimus lactation summary

Pimecrolimus usage has low risk in breastfeeding
  • DrLact safety Score for Pimecrolimus is 3 out of 8 which is considered Low Risk as per our analyses.
  • A safety Score of 3 indicates that usage of Pimecrolimus may cause some minor side effects in breastfed baby.
  • Our study of different scientific research indicates that Pimecrolimus may cause moderate to no side effects in lactating mother.
  • Most of scientific studies and research papers declaring usage of Pimecrolimus low risk in breastfeeding are based on normal dosage and may not hold true for higher dosage.
  • While using Pimecrolimus 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 Pimecrolimus usage in lactation

Immune suppressive drug topically used as treatment of atopic dermatitis. Absorption through skin is minimal. Avoid applying it on the breast to keep the infant from oral absorption.

Answer by DrLact: About Pimecrolimus usage in lactation

Topical pimecrolimus has not been studied during breastfeeding; however, it is used topically in children as young as 3 months of age. Because it is poorly absorbed after topical application and plasma concentrations after topical use in adults are less than 2 mcg/L, it is a low risk to the nursing infant. Do not apply to the nipple area and avoid direct contact of the infant with the areas of skin that have been treated.[1][2] Only water-miscible cream or gel products should be applied to the breast because ointments may expose the infant to high levels of mineral paraffins via licking.[3]
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.