Sodium Chromate Cr 51 and Breastfeeding

Summary of use during lactation

Information in this record refers to the use of sodium chromate Cr 51 as a diagnostic agent. No information is available on the use of sodium chromate Cr 51 during breastfeeding. The manufacturer recommends withholding breastfeeding after a diagnostic dose of sodium chromate Cr 51, but does not provide a specific duration. The long biological and physical half-lives of chromium may preclude resumption of breastfeeding of the infant. Mothers concerned about the level of radioactivity in their milk could ask to have it tested at a nuclear medicine facility at their hospital and 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.[1]

Drug levels in milk and infant serum

Chromium 51 is a gamma emitter with a principal photon energy of 320 keV and a physical half-life of 27.7 days.[2] Chromate binds to red blood cells and is eliminated with a biologic half-life of 25 to 35 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. Stabin MG, Breitz HB. Breast milk excretion of radiopharmaceuticals: Mechanisms, findings, and radiation dosimetry. J Nucl Med 2000;41:863-73.10809203 PubMed
2. Burkhart M, Cockerham A, Cook J, et al. NUREG-1556, Volume 9, Revision 3. Consolidated guidance about materials licenses. Program-specific guidance about medical use licenses. US Nuclear Regulatory Commission Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards 2019. http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/nuregs/staff/sr1556/v9/r2/