Terbinafine
Pharmacokinetics data (low oral bioavailability, high volume of distribution and high protein-binding capacity) explains the scanty excretion into breast milk observed in nursing mothers who received this medication.
In addition, a poor oral absorption would make even more difficult any pass of this drug through ingested milk to the infant's blood, except in newborns or premature who would show a higher intestinal absorption.
Avoid using in prematures who are under treatment with caffeine or theophylline because terbinafine alters its metabolic degradation and increases plasma concentration.
Since topical absorption is less than 1%, a significant excretion into breast milk after application on skin is not expected.
Do not use on the breast to prevent ingestion by the infant, otherwise apply after a meal and wipe it out thoroughly with water before next feeding.
It is recommended to avoid using on the nipple creams, gels and other products intended for use on skin that may contain paraffin (mineral oil) in order to keep from absorption the infant.
Alternatives
- Fluconazole (Very Low Risk)
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
- Butler DC, Heller MM, Murase JE. Safety of dermatologic medications in pregnancy and lactation: Part II. Lactation. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014Abstract
- 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
- Leachman SA, Reed BR. The use of dermatologic drugs in pregnancy and lactation. Dermatol Clin. 2006Abstract
- 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
- Mactal-Haaf C, Hoffman M, Kuchta A. Use of anti-infective agents during lactation, Part 3: Antivirals, antifungals, and urinary antiseptics. J Hum Lact. 2001Abstract
- Schatz F, Haberl H. Analytical methods for the determination of terbinafine and its metabolites in human plasma, milk and urine. Arzneimittelforschung. 1989Abstract