Trizivir and Breastfeeding

Studies have shown that two of the three active ingredients in Trizivir pass through breast milk. Most healthcare providers recommend that if you are taking Trizivir, breastfeeding should be avoided.

 

Trizivir and Breastfeeding: An Overview

It is known that at least two of the medications in Trizivir® (abacavir/lamivudine/zidovudine) pass through breast milk. It is generally recommended that women with HIV or AIDS in developed countries (such as the United States) not breastfeed, in order to reduce the chance of transmitting the HIV infection to their infants. Therefore, most women taking Trizivir should avoid breastfeeding.
 

Trizivir and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?

Studies have shown that both lamivudine and zidovudine pass through breast milk. It is not known whether abacavir passes though breast milk in humans. Importantly, the HIV virus also passes 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 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 Trizivir and Breastfeeding

You should talk with your healthcare provider about Trizivir 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 Trizivir 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;