Azelaic Acid use while Breastfeeding

Summary of Use during Lactation

Topical azelaic acid has not been studied during breastfeeding. Because only 4% of a dose is absorbed after topical application and it is a chemical that appears in foods, bloodstream and breastmilk normally, azelaic acid is considered a low risk to the nursing infant.[1,2] If azelaic acid is required by the mother, it is not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding. Do not apply azelaic acid to the breast or nipple and ensure that the infant's skin does not come into direct contact with the areas of skin that have been treated. Only water-miscible cream or gel products should be applied to the breast because ointments may expose the infant to high levels of mineral paraffins via licking.[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.

Alternate Drugs to Consider

(Acne) Benzoyl Peroxide, Clindamycin, Erythromycin, Tretinoin; (Rosacea) Metronidazole

References

1.

Akhavan A, Bershad S. Topical acne drugs: Review of clinical properties, systemic exposure, and safety. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2003;4:473–92. [PubMed: 12814337]

2.

Leachman SA, Reed BR. The use of dermatologic drugs in pregnancy and lactation. Dermatol Clin. 2006;24:167–97. [PubMed: 16677965]

3.

Noti A, Grob K, Biedermann M, et al. Exposure of babies to C(15)-C(45) mineral paraffins from human milk and breast salves. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2003;38:317–25. [PubMed: 14623482]

Substance Name

Azelaic Acid

CAS Registry Number

123-99-9

Drug Class

Breast Feeding

Lactation

Antineoplastic Agents

Dermatologic Agents