Is Erythromycin (topical use) compatible with breastfeeding? Do we have alternatives for Erythromycin (topical use)?

Erythromycin (topical use)

August 21, 2016 (Very Low Risk)

The small dose and low plasma absorption of most dermatological or topical ophthalmic preparations make it unlikely that a significant amount will pass into breast milk.

Do not apply on the chest to prevent the infant from swallowing it; If necessary, apply after one shot and clean well with water before the next.

Should be applied on the nipple of creams, gels and other local application product containing paraffin (mineral oil) so that the baby does not absorb it.

American Academy of Pediatrics: medication usually compatible with breastfeeding.

List of essential medicines WHO 2002: compatible with breastfeeding.

Alternatives

We do not have alternatives for Erythromycin (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.

Writings

  • Ερυθρομυκίνη, τοπική χρήση (Greek)
  • Эритромицин, местное применение (Cyrillic)
  • 红霉素，外用 (Chinese)
  • エリスロマイシン、局所使用 (Japanese)

Drug trade names

References

  1. Butler DC, Heller MM, Murase JE. Safety of dermatologic medications in pregnancy and lactation: Part II. Lactation. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014Abstract
  2. Kong YL, Tey HL. Treatment of acne vulgaris during pregnancy and lactation. Drugs. 2013Abstract
  3. Fluhr JW, Degitz K. [Antibiotics, azelaic acid and benzoyl peroxide in topical acne therapy]. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges. 2010Abstract
  4. Concin N, Hofstetter G, Plattner B, Tomovski C, Fiselier K, Gerritzen K, Fessler S, Windbichler G, Zeimet A, Ulmer H, Siegl H, Rieger K, Concin H, Grob K. Mineral oil paraffins in human body fat and milk. Food Chem Toxicol. 2008Abstract
  5. Worret WI, Fluhr JW. [Acne therapy with topical benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics and azelaic acid]. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges. 2006Abstract
  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