Is Retinol compatible with breastfeeding? Do we have alternatives for Retinol?

Retinol

April 10, 2015 (Very Low Risk)

Retinol is also a name for vitamin A which is a natural component of human milk. Content in the human milk is about 2,800 IU/L (750 μ/L).

Infant's recommended dietary daily allowance is 2,000 IU (600 μ/L). Mother's recommended daily allowance is 3,200 IU (950 μ/L).

There is a risk for severe intoxication after an isolated dose of 25,000 IU or long-standing daily consumption of 5,000 IU.

After a megadose administration of vitamin A increases concentration to a double in the colostrum.

Supplementation with vitamin A to breastfeeding mothers or infants does not reduce mortality or morbidity among HIV affected offsprings, instead it increases the likelihood of transmission of HIV or subclinical mastitis in those mothers infected with HIV.

Vitamin A is widely distributed in the food of animal or vegetable origin. Except for populations affected with food shortage or nutritionally deficient, those women on a complete and varied diet do not need the intake of vitamin A supplementation

The List of Essential Medicines of WHO-2002 classifies it as compatible with breastfeeding.

Alternatives

We do not have alternatives for Retinol 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

  • ビタミンA
  • Antixerophthalmic Vitamin
  • Axeroftol
  • Vitamin A
  • ريتينول
  • βιταμίνη α
  • ρετινόλη
  • Ретинол

Drug trade names

References

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