Is Betamethasone - Topical Use compatible with breastfeeding? Do we have alternatives for Betamethasone - Topical Use?

Betamethasone - Topical Use

November 9, 2014 (Very Low Risk)

Topical use: Because of a low absorption through skin significant excretion into breast milk is unlikely.

Whenever a treatment for nipple eczema or dermatitis is required the lowest potency steroid compound should be used. It should be applied right after the feed to make sure it has disappeared before the next nursing occurs. Otherwise, wipe cream out with a clean gauze. Do not continuously use for longer than a week. Reportedly, a case of mineral-steroid toxicity has occurred due to continuous use of cream on the nipple.

Creams, gels or similar products that contain paraffin or mineral oil should not be used on the nipple to avoid absorption by the infant.

WHO Model List of Essential Drugs 2002: Compatible with breastfeeding.

Alternatives

We do not have alternatives for Betamethasone - Topical Use since it is relatively safe.

Very Low Risk

Compatible. Not risky for breastfeeding or infant.

Low Risk

Moderately safe. Mild risk possible. Follow up recommended. Read the Comment.

High Risk

Poorly safe. Evaluate carefully. Use a safer alternative. Read the Comment.

Very High Risk

Not recommended. Cessation of breastfeeding or alternative.

Drug trade names

References

  1. AEMPS. Calcipotriol-Betametasona (Daivobet). Ficha técnica. 2014 Full text (in our servers)
  2. Barrett ME, Heller MM, Fullerton Stone H, Murase JE. Dermatoses of the breast in lactation. Dermatol Ther. 2013Abstract
  3. Westermann L, Hügel R, Meier M, Weichenthal M, Zillikens D, Gläser R, Schmidt E. Glucocorticosteroid-resistant pemphigoid gestationis: successful treatment with adjuvant immunoadsorption. J Dermatol. 2012Abstract
  4. Dennis CL, Schottle N, Hodnett E, McQueen K. An all-purpose nipple ointment versus lanolin in treating painful damaged nipples in breastfeeding women: a randomized controlled trial. Breastfeed Med. 2012Abstract
  5. Leo. Calcipotriol & Betamethasone (Dovobet). Product Monograph. 2011 Full text (in our servers)
  6. Noti A, Grob K, Biedermann M, Deiss U, Brüschweiler BJ. Exposure of babies to C15-C45 mineral paraffins from human milk and breast salves. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2003Abstract
  7. WHO / UNICEF. BREASTFEEDING AND MATERNAL MEDICATION Recommendations for Drugs in the Eleventh WHO Model List of Essential Drugs. Department of Child and Adolescent Health and Development (WHO/UNICEF) 2002 Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  8. Nice FJ, Snyder JL, Kotansky BC. Breastfeeding and over-the-counter medications. J Hum Lact. 2000Abstract
  9. Amir L. Eczema of the nipple and breast: a case report. J Hum Lact. 1993Abstract
  10. De Stefano P, Bongo IG, Borgna-Pignatti C, Severi F. Factitious hypertension with mineralocorticoid excess in an infant. Helv Paediatr Acta. 1983Abstract