Piperacillin use while Breastfeeding

Summary of Use during Lactation

Limited information indicates that piperacillin produces low levels in milk that are not expected to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants. Occasionally disruption of the infant's gastrointestinal flora, resulting in diarrhea or thrush have been reported with penicillins, but these effects have not been adequately evaluated. Piperacillin is acceptable in nursing mothers.

Drug Levels

Maternal Levels. Piperacillin in a dosage of 4 grams intravenously every 8 hours for at least 3 days was given to 8 women. Milk levels were measured after 2 subsequent doses. After the first dose, milk levels ranged from 0.49 to 1.5 mg/L in the 3 hours after the dose. After the second dose, milk levels ranged from 1.1 to 1.9 mg/L in the 3 hours after the dose. Peak milk levels occurred 2 to 3 hours after the dose.[1]

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.

References

1.

Baier R, Wolnik L, Puppel H, et al. Piperacillin concentrations in milk and serum from lactating women. Proc ICAAC 1982:203.

Substance Name

Piperacillin

CAS Registry Number

61477-96-1

Drug Class

Breast Feeding

Lactation

Milk, Human

Anti-Infective Agents

Antibacterial Agents

Penicillins