Samarium Sm 153 Lexidronam Pentasodium and Breastfeeding

Summary of use during lactation

Information in this record refers to the use of samarium Sm 153 lexidronam pentasodium as a therapeutic agent. No information is available on the use of samarium Sm 153 lexidronam pentasodium during breastfeeding. Most conditions treated with samarium Sm 153 would not occur in mothers wishing to nurse. However, the manufacturer recommends not administering the drug in women who wish to continue breastfeeding. Because of the relatively long half-life of samarium 153, the standard waiting period of 10 half-lives would be close to 3 weeks which might be impractical for resuming breastfeeding. The manufacturer and expert opinion recommend discontinuing breastfeeding if the agent is administered.[1] Mothers concerned about the level of radioactivity in their milk could ask to have it tested at a nuclear medicine facility at their hospital. When the radioactivity is at background levels they may safely resume breastfeeding. A method for measuring milk radioactivity and determining the time when a mother can safely resume breastfeeding has been published.[2]

Drug levels in milk and infant serum

Samarium Sm 153 emits both medium-energy beta particles and a gamma photon, and has a physical half-life of 1.93 days.

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. BodeiL LamM ChiesaC EANM procedure guideline for treatment of refractory metastatic bone pain. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2008 35 1934 40 18649080 PubMed
2. StabinMG BreitzHB Breast milk excretion of radiopharmaceuticals: Mechanisms, findings, and radiation dosimetry. J Nucl Med 2000 41 863 73 10809203 PubMed