Ticarcillin and Breastfeeding

Summary of use during lactation

Limited information indicates that ticarcillin produces low levels in milk that are not expected to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants. Occasionally disruption of the infant's gastrointestinal flora, resulting in diarrhea or thrush have been reported with penicillins, but these effects have not been adequately evaluated. Ticarcillin is acceptable in nursing mothers.

Drug levels in milk and infant serum

Maternal Levels. Only trace levels of ticarcillin were detected for 6 hours after single 1 gram intramuscular doses in 3 women in one study,[1,2] and 5 women in another early study.[3] After ticarcillin doses of 5 grams intravenously three times a day in 10 women, milk levels averaged 2 to 2.5 mg/L. By 12 hours after the last dose, ticarcillin was undetectable in the milk. The total daily intake of a breastfed infant would be negligible.[4] 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. Matsuda S. Transfer of antibiotics into maternal milk. Biol Res Pregnancy Perinatol 1984;5:57-606743732 PubMed
2. Matsuda S, Tanno M, Kashiwakura T, et al. Laboratory and clinical use of ticarcillin. Chemotherapy (Tokyo) 1977;25:2924-31
3. Cho N, Nakayama T, Uehara K, et al. Laboratory and clinical evaluation of ticarcillin in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. Chemotherapy (Tokyo) 1977;25:2911-23
4. von Kobyletzki D, Dalhoff A, Lindemeyer H, et al. Ticarcillin serum and tissue concentrations in gynecology and obstetrics. Infection 1983;11:144-96885173 PubMed