Neulasta and Breastfeeding

No clinical studies have been conducted on Neulasta and breastfeeding, so it is not known whether the drug passes through breast milk. The medication is not likely to cause any problems in breastfed infants because it is destroyed in the digestive system. Since the full risks are not known, however, be sure to let your healthcare provider know if you are taking Neulasta and breastfeeding.

 

Neulasta and Breastfeeding: An Overview

Neulasta® (pegfilgrastim) is a medication used to prevent low white blood cells and infections in people undergoing chemotherapy treatments for cancer. At this time, it is not known if Neulasta passes through breast milk. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding or thinking of starting, make sure to let your healthcare provider know.
 

Neulasta and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?

Neulasta has not been studied in any breastfeeding women, and it is not known if it passes through breast milk. Theoretically, Neulasta would probably not cause any problems in breastfed infants. Neulasta is a protein that must be given by injection, since the digestive system would destroy the protein. If Neulasta passes through breast milk, it would be digested (and destroyed) in the digestive systems of breastfed infants.
 
However, Neulasta is approved to be used only along with chemotherapy medications, and breastfeeding is usually not recommended for women undergoing chemotherapy treatments.
 

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Neulasta and Breastfeeding

You should talk with your healthcare provider about Neulasta and breastfeeding. Each woman's situation is different, and you and your healthcare provider understand 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 Neulasta 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;