Zanamivir and Breastfeeding

Summary of use during lactation

No information is available on the use of zanamivir during breastfeeding. One group of authors estimated that an exclusively breastfed 5 kg infant would receive about 0.075 mg daily in breastmilk after an inhaled maternal dose of 10 mg, which is less than 1% of the dose in older children. In addition, because zanamivir is poorly absorbed orally, it is not likely to reach the bloodstream of the infant in clinically important amounts.[1]

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

Oseltamivir

References

1. TanakaT NakajimaK MurashimaA Safety of neuraminidase inhibitors against novel influenza A (H1N1) in pregnant and breastfeeding women. CMAJ 2009 181 55 8 19528139 PubMed