Summary of Use during Lactation

No information is available on the clinical use of trastuzumab during breastfeeding. Because trastuzumab is a large protein molecule with a molecular weight of 145,531 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. Until more data become available, trastuzumab should be used with caution during breastfeeding, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.[1] The manufacturer recommends that breastfeeding be discontinued during trastuzumab therapy and for 7 months after the last dose.

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.

References

1.

Pistilli B, Bellettini G, Giovannetti E, et al. Chemotherapy, targeted agents, antiemetics and growth-factors in human milk: How should we counsel cancer patients about breastfeeding? Cancer Treat Rev. 2013;39:207–11. [PubMed: 23199900]

Substance Name

Trastuzumab

CAS Registry Number

180288-69-1

Drug Class

Breast Feeding

Lactation

Milk, Human

Antibodies, Monoclonal

Antineoplastic Agents