Reyataz and Breastfeeding: An Overview
Currently, it is not known whether
Reyataz® (
atazanavir sulfate) passes through breast milk in humans. However, women with
HIV or
AIDS in developed countries (such as the United States) are almost always advised to avoid breastfeeding in order to reduce the chance of transmitting the HIV infection to their infants. Therefore, most women taking Reyataz should avoid breastfeeding.
Reyataz and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?
Studies have demonstrated that Reyataz passes through breast milk in rats, but no studies have evaluated the drug in breastfeeding women. Based on the chemical properties of Reyataz, however, it is likely to pass through breast milk in humans. More 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 tell whether breastfeeding or formula feeding is more dangerous. In general, using both breastfeeding and formula feeding is considered the 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 Reyataz and Breastfeeding
You should talk with your healthcare provider about Reyataz 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, the two of you can make a shared decision about Reyataz and breastfeeding that is right for you.
