Valdecoxib use while Breastfeeding
Drugs containing Valdecoxib: Bextra
Valdecoxib Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding
Summary of Use during Lactation
Valdecoxib was removed from sale in the United States by the US Food and Drug Administration because of long-term cardiovascular toxicity. Limited information indicates that levels of valdecoxib in breastmilk are low. Because there is little published experience with valdecoxib during breastfeeding, other agents may be preferred, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.
Drug Levels
Maternal Levels. A review article states that breastmilk levels of valdecoxib are much less than 200 mcg/L based on unpublished studies from the author's laboratory.[1]
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
A study compared valdecoxib 20 mg and placebo for their opiate-sparing activity in post-cesarean section pain. All patients received epidural fentanyl and bupivacaine as well as intraspinal morphine for postoperative pain. No difference was observed in breastfeeding success rate between mothers who received valdecoxib (n = 25) and placebo (n = 23).[2]
Alternate Drugs to Consider
Acetaminophen, Flurbiprofen, Ibuprofen, Indomethacin, Naproxen, Piroxicam.
References
1. Hale TW. Medications in breastfeeding mothers of preterm infants. Pediatr Ann. 2003;32(5):337-47. PMID: 12774709
2. Carvalho B, Chu L, Fuller A et al. Valdecoxib for postoperative pain management after cesarean delivery: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Anesth Analg. 2006;103:664-70. PMID: 16931678
Valdecoxib Identification
Substance Name
CAS Registry Number
181695-72-7
Drug Class
- Analgesic Agents
- Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Agents
Administrative Information
LactMed Record Number
275
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...
- Valdecoxib use during Pregnancy
- Valdecoxib 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.
