Diethyltoluamide
Diethyltoluamide or DEET is an effective insect repellent against mosquitoes, black flies, ticks and fleas.
Since the last update, we have not found published data on its excretion in breast milk.
Its pharmacokinetic data (low molecular weight, moderate cutaneous absorption and highly lipophilic) make its transfer to milk possible in amounts that could be significant.
There is no evidence that the use of DEET in breastfeeding mothers affects the child (Koren 2003).
Avoid the use of products with a concentration higher than 25%, do not use over extended areas of skin (Chen 2009) and do not apply to the chest. Avoid contact with the baby and ventilate well.
It is a product which is approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics for use in infants older than two months at concentrations not exceeding 30% (AAP 2017).
WHO list of essential medicines: compatible with breastfeeding (WHO / UNICEF, 2002).
Alternatives
We do not have alternatives for Diethyltoluamide 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.
Synonyms
- N,N-Diethyl-3-methylbenzamide
Writings
- ثنائي إثيلتولياميد (Arabic)
- Диэтилтолуамид (Cyrillic)
- 二乙甲苯酰胺 (Chinese)
- ジエチルトルアミド (Japanese)
- Diéthyltoluamide (French)
- C12H17NO (Molecular formula)
- NN-Diethyl-m-toluamide (Chemical name)
- DEET (Abbreviation)
- P03BX01 (ATC Code/s)
Drug trade names
References
- AAP. American Academy of Pediatrics. Summer Safety Tips. 2017 Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
- Chen LH, Zeind C, Mackell S, LaPointe T, Mutsch M, Wilson ME. Breastfeeding travelers: precautions and recommendations. J Travel Med. 2010Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
- Koren G, Matsui D, Bailey B. DEET-based insect repellents: safety implications for children and pregnant and lactating women. CMAJ. 2003Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
- 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)