Epirubicin and Breastfeeding

In clinical studies on epirubicin and breastfeeding, the medication was shown to pass through breast milk in rats. While it is not known whether the drug passes through breast milk in humans, it is generally recommended to stop taking epirubicin while breastfeeding. You should talk to your healthcare provider about epirubicin and breastfeeding to review the possible risks in your situation.

 

Epirubicin and Breastfeeding: An Overview

It is not know if epirubicin (Ellence®) passes through breast milk. Because of the potentially serious side effects that could occur in the nursing infant, the manufacturer of epirubicin 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.
 

Epirubicin and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?

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

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Epirubicin and Breastfeeding

You should talk with your healthcare provider about epirubicin 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 epirubicin 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;