Doxorubicin and Breastfeeding

If you are taking doxorubicin and breastfeeding at the same time, it is important to know that the medication does pass through breast milk. Because of the potentially serious side effects that could occur to the nursing infant, the manufacturer of doxorubicin recommends that women not breastfeed while taking the drug. If your healthcare provider recommends taking doxorubicin while breastfeeding, be sure to watch for any side effects in your child.

 

An Overview of Doxorubicin and Breastfeeding

Doxorubicin hydrochloride (Adriamycin®, Doxil®) passes through breast milk. Because of the potentially serious side effects that could occur in the nursing infant, the manufacturer of doxorubicin recommends that women not breastfeed while taking doxorubicin. Therefore, make sure to let your healthcare provider know if you are breastfeeding or thinking of breastfeeding.
 

Doxorubicin and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?

In studies, doxorubicin was shown to pass through breast milk. Because doxorubicin can cause very dangerous side effects, it is generally recommended that women stop breastfeeding while taking doxorubicin. If your healthcare provider recommends taking doxorubicin while breastfeeding, be sure to watch for any side effects in your child.
 

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Doxorubicin and Breastfeeding

You should talk with your healthcare provider about doxorubicin and breastfeeding. Everyone's situation is different, and your healthcare provider understands your situation best. After considering what you want and expect, as well as your current health situation, you and your healthcare provider can make a shared decision about doxorubicin and breastfeeding in your particular situation.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;