Cloxacillin Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding
Summary of Use during Lactation
Limited information indicates that cloxacillin produces low levels in milk that are not expected to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants. Occasionally disruption of the infant's gastrointestinal flora, resulting in diarrhea or thrush have been reported with penicillins, but these effects have not been adequately evaluated. Cloxacillin is acceptable in nursing mothers.
Drug Levels
Maternal Levels. No studies have reported milk levels after oral cloxacillin. After a single intramuscular dose of 500 mg of cloxacillin in 2 women, milk levels ranged from 0.1 to 0.3 mg/L between 1 and 6 hours after the dose.[1]
Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Effects in Breastfed Infants
In a telephone follow-up study, 10 nursing mothers reported taking cloxacillin (dosage unspecified). Two mothers reported diarrhea in their infants. No rashes or candidiasis were reported among the exposed infants.[2]
Effects on Lactation and Breastmilk
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Matsuda S. Transfer of antibiotics into maternal milk. Biol Res Pregnancy. 1984;5:57-60.. [PubMed: 6743732]
2.
Ito S, Blajchman A, Stephenson M, et al. Prospective follow-up of adverse reactions in breast-fed infants exposed to maternal medication. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1993;168:1393–9. [PubMed: 8498418]
Substance Identification
Substance Name
Cloxacillin
CAS Registry Number
61-72-3
Drug Class
Breast Feeding
Lactation
Anti-Infective Agents
Antibacterial Agents
Penicillins
Disclaimer: Information presented in this database is not meant as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. The U.S. government does not warrant or assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Site.
