Leucovorin and Breastfeeding

Summary of use during lactation

Leucovorin (citrovorum factor; folinic acid) and its levo- isomer, levoleucovorin, are folic acid derivatives that are normal components of breastmilk.[1,2] Because leucovorin and levoleucovorin are used as therapeutic agents with potentially toxic drugs such as fluorouracil or methotrexate, the LactMed record of the drug it is used with should be consulted.

Drug levels in milk and infant serum

Maternal Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date. Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Effects in breastfed infants

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Effects on lactation and breastmilk

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

References

1. Page R, Robichaud A, Arbuckle TE, et al. Total folate and unmetabolized folic acid in the breast milk of a cross-section of Canadian women. Am J Clin Nutr 2017;105:1101–9.28298392 PubMed
2. Su Y, Mao Y, Tian F, et al. Profile of folate in breast milk from Chinese women over 1-400 days postpartum. Nutrients 2022;14:2962.35889919 PubMed