Telbivudine Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding
Summary of Use during Lactation
Telbivudine has been discontinued from the US market. It has not been studied in nursing mothers being treated for hepatitis B infection. An alternate drug may be preferred, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.
No difference exist in infection rates between breast-fed and formula-fed infants born to hepatitis B-infected women, as long as the infant receives hepatitis B immune globulin and hepatitis B vaccine at birth. Mothers with hepatitis B are encouraged to breastfeed their infants after their infants receive these preventative measures.[1,2]
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.
Visvanathan K, Dusheiko G, Giles M, et al. Managing HBV in pregnancy. Prevention, prophylaxis, treatment and follow-up: Position paper produced by Australian, UK and New Zealand key opinion leaders. Gut. 2016;65:340–50. [PubMed: 26475631]
2.
Dionne-Odom J, Tita AT, Silverman NS. #38: Hepatitis B in pregnancy screening, treatment, and prevention of vertical transmission. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2016;214:6–14. [PubMed: 26454123]
Substance Identification
Substance Name
Telbivudine
CAS Registry Number
3424-98-4
Drug Class
Breast Feeding
Lactation
Milk, Human
Antiviral Agents
Nucleic Acid Synthesis Inhibitors
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.
