Erythromycin Gel while Breastfeeding

What is Erythromycin Gel used for?

Is Erythromycin Gel usage safe while breastfeeding? If a lactating mother is using it can there be any effect on growth or development of infant?

Erythromycin while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 114-07-8

Excreted in very low levels into breast milk. Commonly used for pediatric treatment of small babies; it is very well tolerated by infants. Erythromycin is a macrolide that has been related to hypertrophic pyloric stenosis after early exposition through the breast milk. Avoiding its use in the first post-partum month would be a cautious measure. Be aware of the possibility of false negative results of bacterial cultures when the mother is on antibiotics. Also, diarrheal disease due to imbalance of intestinal flora is possible Small doses used for treatment of dermatologic and ophthalmologic conditions, together with a very low level in the mother’s plasma make very unlikely a significant excretion into breast milk. Topically used Erythromycin is safe while breastfeeding. Systemic treatments would be safer after the first month of life. The American Academy of Pediatrics rates it usually compatible with breastfeeding. List of Essential Medicines WHO 2002: Compatible with breastfeeding.

Erythromycin while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 114-07-8

Because of the low levels of erythromycin in breastmilk and safe administration directly to infants, it is acceptable in nursing mothers. The small amounts in milk are unlikely to cause adverse effects in the infant. Monitor the infant for irritability and possible effects on the gastrointestinal flora, such as diarrhea, candidiasis (thrush, diaper rash). One case report and unconfirmed epidemiologic evidence indicates that the risk of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in infants might occur during maternal use of erythromycin during breastfeeding; however, if it occurs, the frequency is very low. Infant side effects are unlikely with topical application for acne, although topical application to the nipple may increase the risk of diarrhea in the infant. 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.[1]

What if I already have used Erythromycin Gel?

I am nursing mother and my doctor has suggested me to use Erythromycin Gel, is it safe?

If I am using Erythromycin Gel, will my baby need extra monitoring?

Who can I talk to if I have questions about usage of Erythromycin Gel in breastfeeding?