Epzicom and Breastfeeding

In clinical studies on Epzicom and breastfeeding, at least one of the active ingredients of the drug was shown to pass through breast milk. It is also generally recommended that women with HIV or AIDS avoid breastfeeding (since the infection can be transmitted to the infant). Due to these potential risks, most women taking Epzicom should avoid breastfeeding.

 

Epzicom and Breastfeeding: An Overview

At least one of the medications in Epzicom™ (abacavir/lamivudine) passes through breast milk. It is usually recommended that women with HIV or AIDS in developed countries (such as the United States) not breastfeed their infants, in order to reduce the chance of transmitting the HIV infection to their infants. Therefore, most women taking Epzicom should avoid breastfeeding.
 

Epzicom and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?

Studies have shown that both lamivudine and abacavir pass through breast milk. It is not known whether abacavir passes though breast milk in humans (although studies have shown that it passes through breast milk in rats). Importantly, the HIV virus can also 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 to 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 most dangerous, 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 Epzicom and Breastfeeding

You should talk with your healthcare provider about Epzicom 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 Epzicom 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;