Velaglucerase Alfa Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding
Summary of Use during Lactation
No information is available on the clinical use of velaglucerase during breastfeeding. Velaglucerase is a synthetic form of beta-glucocerebrosidase, which is a normal component of human milk, but has an identical amino acid sequence to the normal enzyme. Studies with other forms of the enzyme have found very low levels of the enzyme in breastmilk. Absorption by the infant is unlikely because it is probably destroyed in the infant's gastrointestinal tract.[1,2] A limited amount of data support the safety of breastfeeding with alglucerase (the placenta-derived form of the enzyme) and imiglucerase (another biosynthetic form of the enzyme). An international panel of clinicians from 9 centers that treat Gaucher's disease reported that, breastfeeding complications were less frequent in mothers who were treated with alglucerase or imiglucerase postpartum than in untreated mothers with Gaucher's disease. Consider limiting the duration of breastfeeding to about 6 months to avoid excessive bone loss in the nursing mother.[2,3]
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.
Belmatoug N. Considerations for pregnant patients with Gaucher disease: challenges for the patient and physician. Clin Ther. 2009;31 Suppl. 3:S192–3. [CrossRef]
2.
Zimran A, Morris E, Mengel E, et al. The female Gaucher patient: the impact of enzyme replacement therapy around key reproductive events (menstruation, pregnancy and menopause). Blood Cells Molec Dis. 2009;43:264–88. [PubMed: 19502088]
3.
Granovsky-Grisaru S, Belmatoug N, vom Dahl S, et al. The management of pregnancy in Gaucher disease. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 2011;156:3–8. [PubMed: 21269752]
Substance Identification
Substance Name
Velaglucerase Alfa
CAS Registry Number
884604-91-5
Drug Class
Breast Feeding
Lactation
Enzymes
Enzyme Replacement Therapy
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.
