Clotrimazole use while Breastfeeding

Summary of Use during Lactation

Because clotrimazole has poor oral bioavailability, it is unlikely to adversely affect the breastfed infant, including topical application to the nipples. It has been used orally in infants with thrush, sometimes successfully after nystatin has failed.[1] Any excess cream or ointment should be removed from the nipples before nursing. 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.[2]

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

Fluconazole, Miconazole, Nystatin

References

1.

Johnstone HA, Marcinak JF. Candidiasis in the breastfeeding mother and infant. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs. 1990;19:171–3. [PubMed: 2319366]

2.

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

Clotrimazole

CAS Registry Number

23593-75-1

Drug Class

Breast Feeding

Lactation

Antifungal Agents