Can You Breastfeed While Taking Hepatitis B Medication?

Can I breastfeed while taking Sibutramine?

Dear Doctor: I have been taking ETV (Entecavir) for over a year, and my e-antigen has turned negative.
I am currently pregnant and continuing treatment.
Is it safe to breastfeed? Are there any clinical cases of breastfeeding while on this medication? Thank you.

ed, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/15

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

1.
Continuing antiviral medication during pregnancy and monitoring viral load is also a preventive measure.
2.
The baby should receive the hepatitis B vaccine at birth.
3.
Mothers with hepatitis B can breastfeed.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/03/15

More Info

When it comes to breastfeeding while taking hepatitis B medication, particularly with a drug like Tenofovir (also known as Viread or by its brand name, Hepsera), there are several important considerations to keep in mind.
Firstly, Tenofovir is an antiviral medication that is commonly used to treat chronic hepatitis B. It works by inhibiting the replication of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) in the body. The good news is that studies have shown that Tenofovir is generally safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The drug has a low concentration in breast milk, which means that the amount that a breastfeeding infant would be exposed to is minimal.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health organizations, breastfeeding is encouraged for mothers who are on antiviral therapy for hepatitis B, as long as the mother is under proper medical supervision and the infant is vaccinated against hepatitis B. The benefits of breastfeeding, including the provision of essential nutrients and antibodies to the infant, often outweigh the potential risks associated with the low levels of medication that might be passed through breast milk.

In clinical practice, there have been cases where mothers on Tenofovir have successfully breastfed their infants without any reported adverse effects. However, it is crucial for mothers to discuss their specific situation with their healthcare provider. This includes considering the mother's overall health, the status of her hepatitis B infection, and any other medications she may be taking.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that the infant receives the hepatitis B vaccine and the hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) within 12 hours of birth if the mother is hepatitis B positive. This is a critical step in preventing the transmission of the virus to the infant.

In summary, breastfeeding while taking hepatitis B medication like Tenofovir is generally considered safe, and many healthcare providers support breastfeeding in these cases. However, it is essential for mothers to have open discussions with their healthcare providers to ensure that both their health and the health of their infant are adequately monitored. Regular follow-ups and assessments can help manage any potential risks and ensure that both mother and baby remain healthy during this time.

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