Summary of use during 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. Ensure that the infant’s skin does not come into direct contact with the areas of skin that have been treated. Current guidelines allow topical pimecrolimus to be applied to the nipples just after nursing for eczema, with the nipples cleaned gently before nursing.[1,2]
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.
Alternative drugs to consider
Tacrolimus
Source: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®), National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NCBI Bookshelf. Check LactMed for the most recent revision.
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