Bebtelovimab Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding
Summary of Use during Lactation
The US FDA has withdrawn emergency-use authorization for bebtelovimab because of its poor activity against some Omicron strains of SARS- CoV-2. Bebtelovimab is a monoclonal antibody directed against the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19. No information is available on the clinical use of bebtelovimab during breastfeeding. Because bebtelovimab is a large protein molecule, the amount in milk is likely to be very low.[1] It is also likely to be partially destroyed in the infant's gastrointestinal tract and absorption by the infant is probably minimal.[2] Similar anti-SARS-CoV-2 monoclonal antibodies were used during pregnancy and lactation in one mother with no adverse consequences.[3] Until more data become available, bebtelovimab should be used with caution during breastfeeding, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.
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.
Stratigakis A, Paty D, Zou P, et al. A regression approach for assessing large molecular drug concentration in breast milk. Reprod Breed 2023;3:199-207. doi:10.1016/j.repbre.2023.10.003 [CrossRef]
2.
Anderson PO. Monoclonal antibodies during breastfeeding. Breastfeed Med 2021;16:591-3. [PubMed: 33956488]
3.
Ogawa E, Goto H, Ushimaru H, et al. Vaginal delivery after improvement in COVID-19 by monoclonal antibody treatment: A case report and literature review. J Infect Chemother 2022;28:982-6. [PMC free article: PMC8898669] [PubMed: 35288022]
Substance Identification
Substance Name
Bebtelovimab
CAS Registry Number
2578319-11-4
Drug Class
Breast Feeding
Lactation
Milk, Human
Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
Antibodies, Viral
Antiviral Agents
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.
