Kidneys Channel
Topics & Medications
Quicklinks
Related Channels
Epogen and Breastfeeding
It is not clear if Epogen is entirely safe for pregnant women to use. Since no studies have been conducted on the link between Epogen and breastfeeding, researchers do not know whether the drug passes through breast milk. Even if Epogen does pass through breast milk, however, it is unlikely to cause problems in a nursing child because it would be destroyed by the digestive system.
from eMedTV.comEpogen® (epoetin alfa) is a medication used for the treatment of anemia due to various causes. It is available by prescription only. Currently, it is not known whether Epogen passes through breast milk. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding or are thinking of starting, make sure to let your healthcare provider know.
Epogen has not been studied in any breastfeeding women; therefore, it is not known whether it passes through breast milk. Theoretically, the drug is not likely to cause any problems in nursing infants. Epogen is a protein that must be given by injection, since the digestive system would destroy the protein. If the drug does pass through breast milk, it would be digested and destroyed in the digestive systems of breastfed infants.
You should talk with your healthcare provider about Epogen 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 Epogen and breastfeeding that is right for you.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD