Tecovirimat and Breastfeeding

Summary of use during lactation

Because of relatively high protein binding and low oral absorption, exposure of the breastfed infant is likely to be low. Additionally, tecovirimat is approved for use in pediatric patients weighing as little as 3 kg. Amounts in breastmilk are unlikely to adversely affect the breastfed infant. Tecovirimat is considered to be the drug of choice for treating Mpox during breastfeeding. Individuals with Mpox should feed their infants with pasteurized donor milk or infant formula until all of their lesions are healed. Numerous other safety precautions are advised for mothers with Mpox.[1] Individuals with smallpox are recommended not to breastfeed their infant because of the risk of passing variola virus to the infant through direct contact.

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. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Mpox clinical care and treatment during pregnancy. January 30, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/mpox/hcp/clinical-care/pregnancy.html