Abraxane and Breastfeeding

It is generally recommended to avoid breastfeeding while taking Abraxane. Breastfeeding while using the drug may cause harm to the nursing infant, because the medicine may pass through breast milk. Since everyone's situation is different, however, make sure to talk to your healthcare provider about Abraxane and breastfeeding in your particular situation.

 

Abraxane and Breastfeeding: An Overview

It is not known if Abraxane® (protein-bound paclitaxel) passes through breast milk. Because of the potentially serious side effects that could occur in the nursing infant, the manufacturer of Abraxane recommends that women not breastfeed while taking the drug. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding or thinking of starting, make sure to let your healthcare provider know.
 

Abraxane and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?

In studies, Abraxane was shown to pass through breast milk in rats, but is not known if the medicine passes through breast milk in humans. Because Abraxane can cause very dangerous side effects, it is generally recommended that women stop breastfeeding while taking Abraxane. If your healthcare provider recommends taking Abraxane while breastfeeding, be sure to watch for any side effects in your child.
 

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Abraxane and Breastfeeding

You should talk with your healthcare provider about Abraxane and breastfeeding. Everyone's situation is different, and your healthcare provider understands your situation best. After considering what you want and expect, as well as your current health situation, you and your healthcare provider can make a shared decision about Abraxane and breastfeeding in your particular situation.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;