Norfloxacin use while Breastfeeding

Drugs containing Norfloxacin: Noroxin, Chibroxin

Norfloxacin Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding

Summary of Use during Lactation

Fluoroquinolones such as norfloxacin have traditionally not been used in infants because of concern about adverse effects on the infants' developing joints. However, recent studies indicate little risk.[1][2] In addition, the calcium in milk might prevent absorption of the small amounts of fluoroquinolones in milk,[3] but insufficient data exist to prove or disprove this assertion. The serum and milk levels and oral bioavailability of norfloxacin are the lowest of any of the fluoroquniolones, so the risk to the infant should be minimal. Short-term use of norfloxacin is acceptable in nursing mothers.

Drug Levels

Maternal Levels. Norfloxacin was undetectable in milk at any time up to 6 hours after a single 200 mg oral dose.[4] Milk levels have not been measured after repeated administration.

Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Effects in Breastfed Infants

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Possible Effects on Lactation

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Alternate Drugs to Consider

Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin, Nitrofurantoin, Trimethoprim

References

1. Gurpinar AN, Balkan E, Kilic N et al. The effects of a fluoroquinolone on the growth and development of infants. J Int Med Res. 1997;25:302-6. PMID: 9364293

2. van den Oever HL, Versteegh FG, Thewessen EA et al. Ciprofloxacin in preterm neonates: case report and review of the literature. Eur J Pediatr. 1998;157:843-5. PMID: 9809826

3. Fleiss PM. The effect of maternal medications on breast-feeding infants. J Hum Lact. 1992;8:7. Letter. PMID: 1558663

4. Takase Z, Shirafuji H, Uchida M. Basic and clinical studies on AM-715 in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. Chemotherapy (Tokyo). 1981;29 (Suppl 4):697-704.

Norfloxacin Identification

Substance Name

Norfloxacin

CAS Registry Number

70458-96-7

Drug Class

• Antiinfective Agents
• Antibacterial Agents
• Quinolones
• Fluoroquinolones

Administrative Information

LactMed Record Number

203

Information from the National Library of Medicine's LactMed Database.

Last Revision Date

2011-01-04

Disclaimer

Information presented in this database is not meant as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. The U.S. government does not warrant or assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Site.

See Also...

• Norfloxacin use during Pregnancy
• Norfloxacin ophthalmic use during Pregnancy
• Norfloxacin ophthalmic Consumer Information
• Norfloxacin Consumer Information
• Breastfeeding Support Group
• Safe Medications during Breastfeeding
• Medicine use while Breastfeeding
• Medicine use during Pregnancy

Disclaimer: This information is not intended as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. Use of this website signifies your agreement to the Terms of Use and Online Privacy Policy.