Emtriva and Breastfeeding

There have not been any studies done on Emtriva and breastfeeding, so it is not known if the medication passes through breast milk. In general, it is almost always recommended that women with HIV or AIDS avoid breastfeeding to prevent transmitting the HIV virus to their infant. Because each woman's situation is different, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about taking Emtriva and breastfeeding.

 

Emtriva and Breastfeeding: An Overview

Currently, it is not known if Emtriva® (emtricitabine) passes through breast milk. It is almost always recommended that women with HIV or AIDS in developed countries (such as the United States) avoid breastfeeding in order to reduce the chance of transmitting the HIV infection to their infants. Therefore, most women taking Emtriva should not breastfeed.
 

Emtriva and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?

No research has been done to see if Emtriva passes through breast milk (or if it would cause any problems in the infant if it passes through breast milk). It is very important to understand that the HIV virus can pass through breast milk. Any HIV-infected woman who can safely feed her baby with formula should not breastfeed. There are some situations in which formula feeding is not safe, such as if no clean water supply is available to mix the formula or wash the bottles. In these situations, it is difficult to know whether breastfeeding or formula feeding is more dangerous. In general, using both breastfeeding and formula feeding is considered to be the most dangerous situation, as digestive system irritation or infections from unclean water can allow HIV to pass into the body (from the digestive tract) more easily.
 

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Emtriva and Breastfeeding

You should talk with your healthcare provider about Emtriva and breastfeeding. Each woman's situation is different, and you and your healthcare provider understand your situation best. After considering what you want and expect, as well as your current health situation, you and your healthcare provider can make a shared decision about Emtriva and breastfeeding in your particular situation.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;