Ticarcillin and Clavulanic Acid use while Breastfeeding

Summary of Use during Lactation

Limited information indicates that ticarcillin produces low levels in milk that are not expected to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants. Clavulanic acid has not been studied in nursing mothers. Occasionally disruption of the infant's gastrointestinal flora, resulting in diarrhea or thrush have been reported with penicillins, but these effects have not been adequately evaluated. Ticarcillin and clavulanic acid is acceptable is acceptable in nursing mothers.

Drug Levels

Maternal Levels. No studies on the combination of ticarcillin and clavulanic acid during breastfeeding have been reported. Only trace levels of ticarcillin were detected for 6 hours after single 1 gram intramuscular doses in 3 women in one study[1][2] and 5 women in another early study.[3]

After ticarcillin doses of 5 grams intravenously three times a day in 10 women, milk levels averaged 2 to 2.5 mg/L. By 12 hours after the last dose, ticarcillin was undetectable in the milk. The total daily intake of a breastfed infant would be negligible.[4]

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.

References

1.

Matsuda S, Tanno M, Kashiwakura T et al. Laboratory and clinical use of ticarcillin. Chemotherapy (Tokyo). 1977;25:2924-31.

2.

Matsuda S. Transfer of antibiotics into maternal milk. Biol Res Pregnancy. 1984;5:57-60. [PubMed: 6743732]

3.

Cho N, Nakayama T, Uehara K et al. Laboratory and clinical evaluation of ticarcillin in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. Chemotherapy (Tokyo). 1977;25:2911-23.

4.

von Kobyletzki D, Dalhoff A, Lindemeyer H et al. Ticarcillin serum and tissue concentrations in gynecology and obstetrics. Infection. 1983;11:144-9. [PubMed: 6885173]

Substance Name

Ticarcillin and Clavulanic Acid

CAS Registry Number

86482-18-0

Drug Class

• Breast Feeding
• Lactation
• Anti-Infective Agents
• Antibacterial Agents
• Penicillins