Pimecrolimus use while Breastfeeding

Summary of Use during Lactation

Topical pimecrolimus has not been studied during breastfeeding; however, it is used topically in children as young as 3 months of age. Because it is poorly absorbed after topical application and plasma concentrations after topical use in adults are less than 2 mcg/L, it is a low risk to the nursing infant. Ensure that the infant's skin does not come into direct contact with the areas of skin that have been treated. Current guidelines allow topical pimecrolimus to be applied to the nipples just after nursing for eczema, with the nipples cleaned gently before nursing.[1,2]

Drug Levels

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

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.

Effects on Lactation and Breastmilk

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

Alternate Drugs to Consider

Tacrolimus

References

1.

Vestergaard C, Wollenberg A, Barbarot S, et al. European task force on atopic dermatitis position paper: treatment of parental atopic dermatitis during preconception, pregnancy and lactation period. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2019;33:1644-59. [PubMed: 31231864]

2.

Deleuran M, Dézfoulian B, Elberling J, et al. Systemic anti-inflammatory treatment of atopic dermatitis during conception, pregnancy and breastfeeding: Interdisciplinary expert consensus in Northern Europe. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2023. [PubMed: 37818828]

Substance Name

Pimecrolimus

CAS Registry Number

137071-32-0

Drug Class

Breast Feeding

Lactation

Milk, Human

Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal

Dermatologic Agents

Immunosuppressive Agents