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Secukinumab use while Breastfeeding

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Nov 7, 2023.

Drugs containing Secukinumab: Cosentyx

Secukinumab Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding

Summary of Use during Lactation

No information is available on the clinical use of secukinumab during breastfeeding. Because secukinumab is a large protein molecule with a molecular weight of 151,000 Da, the amount in milk is likely to be very low. It is also likely to be partially destroyed in the infant's gastrointestinal tract and absorption by the infant is probably minimal.[1-3] Some professional guidelines consider secukinumab to be acceptable during breastfeeding.[4] Until more data become available, secukinumab should be used with caution during breastfeeding, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant. Waiting for at least 2 weeks postpartum to resume therapy may minimize transfer to the infant.[5]

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

(Psoriasis) Adalimumab, Certolizumab Pegol, Etanercept, Infliximab, Phototherapy, Tretinoin

References

1.
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.
Sammaritano LR, Bermas BL, Chakravarty EE, et al. 2020 American College of Rheumatology Guideline for the Management of Reproductive Health in Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases. Arthritis Rheumatol 2020;72:529-56. [PubMed: 32090480]
4.
Russell MD, Dey M, Flint J, et al. British Society for Rheumatology guideline on prescribing drugs in pregnancy and breastfeeding: Immunomodulatory anti-rheumatic drugs and corticosteroids. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2023;62:e48-e88. [PMC free article: PMC10070073] [PubMed: 36318966]
5.
Krysko KM, Dobson R, Alroughani R, et al. Family planning considerations in people with multiple sclerosis. Lancet Neurol 2023;22:350-66. [PubMed: 36931808]

Substance Identification

Substance Name

Secukinumab

CAS Registry Number

1229022-83-6

Drug Class

Breast Feeding

Lactation

Milk, Human

Antibodies, Monoclonal

Dermatologic 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.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.