Rituximab use while Breastfeeding
Drugs containing Rituximab: Rituxan
Rituximab Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding
Summary of Use during Lactation
Rituximab is a large protein molecule with a molecular weight of 143,860. Only small amounts at most would be expected to enter breastmilk. No information is available on the use of rituximab during breastfeeding, so an alternate drug may be preferred, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.[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.
Possible Effects on Lactation
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Alternate Drugs to Consider
(Rheumatoid Arthritis) Auranofin, Gold Sodium Thiomalate, Hydroxychloroquine, Infliximab, Methotrexate, Penicillamine, Sulfasalazine
References
1. Ostensen M. Management of early aggressive rheumatoid arthritis during pregnancy and lactation. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2009;10:1469-79. PMID: 19505214
2. Keeling SO, Oswald AE. Pregnancy and rheumatic disease: "by the book" or "by the doc". Clin Rheumatol. 2009;28:1-9. PMID: 18987777
Rituximab Identification
Substance Name
CAS Registry Number
174722-31-7
Drug Class
- Antirheumatic Agents
Administrative Information
LactMed Record Number
888
Information from the National Library of Medicine's LactMed Database.
Last Revision Date
2011-08-02
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...
- Rituximab use during Pregnancy
- Rituximab 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.
