Summary of Use during Lactation

No information is available on the clinical use of faricimab during breastfeeding. Because faricimab is a large protein molecule with a molecular weight of 149,000 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. Waiting for at least 2 weeks postpartum to resume therapy may minimize transfer to the infant.[1] Until more data become available, faricimab should be used with caution during breastfeeding, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant. An alternate drug with more breastfeeding information may be preferred. Faricimab inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Since VEGF is present in human milk and is thought to help in maturation of the infant’s gastrointestinal tract, concern has been raised about the maternal use of VEGF inhibitors during breastfeeding. Note that the typical alternative to breastmilk is infant formula, which contains no VEGF.

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

(Intravitreal) Aflibercept, Bevacizumab, Ranibizumab

References

1.

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 Name

Faricimab

CAS Registry Number

1607793-29-2

Drug Class

Breast Feeding

Lactation

Milk, Human

Antibodies, Monoclonal

Angiogenesis Inhibitors