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Gatifloxacin use while Breastfeeding

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Aug 20, 2024.

Drugs containing Gatifloxacin: Zymaxid, Zymar, Tequin, Tequin Teqpaq

Gatifloxacin Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding

Summary of Use during Lactation

No information is available on the clinical use of gatifloxacin during breastfeeding. Fluoroquinolones have traditionally not been used in infants because of concern about adverse effects on the infants' developing joints. However, recent studies indicate little risk.[1,2] The calcium in milk might prevent absorption of the small amounts of fluoroquinolones in milk,[3] but insufficient data exist to prove or disprove this assertion. Use of gatifloxacin is acceptable in nursing mothers with monitoring of the infant for possible effects on the gastrointestinal flora, such as diarrhea or candidiasis (thrush, diaper rash). However, it is preferable to use an alternate drug for which safety information is available.

Maternal use of an ear drop or eye drop that contains gatifloxacin presents negligible risk for the nursing infant. To substantially diminish the amount of drug that reaches the breastmilk after using eye drops, place pressure over the tear duct by the corner of the eye for 1 minute or more, then remove the excess solution with an absorbent tissue.

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

(Systemic) Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin; (Ophthalmic) Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin, Ofloxacin

References

1.
Gürpinar AN, Balkan E, Kiliç N, et al. The effects of a fluoroquinolone on the growth and development of infants. J Int Med Res 1997;25:302-6 [PubMed: 9364293]
2.
van den Oever HL, Versteegh FG, Thewessen EA, et al. Ciprofloxacin in preterm neonates: Case report and review of the literature. Eur J Pediatr 1998;157:843-5 [PubMed: 9809826]
3.
Fleiss PM. The effect of maternal medications on breast-feeding infants. J Hum Lact 1992;8:7 [PubMed: 1558663]

Substance Identification

Substance Name

Gatifloxacin

CAS Registry Number

112811-59-3

Drug Class

Breast Feeding

Lactation

Milk, Human

Anti-Infective Agents

Antibacterial Agents

Quinolones

Fluoroquinolones

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.

Further information

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