title: Lactation and the use of biologic immunosuppressive medications.
abstract: Biologic medications are effective therapeutic options for treating autoimmune diseases, but information on their safety in lactation is still scarce. Autoimmune conditions occur frequently in women of childbearing age, creating difficult decisions regarding optimizing maternal health and supporting breastfeeding. Available data, in addition to the favorable pharmacokinetic properties of biologics, suggest that these medications are compatible with breastfeeding. A review of the available evidence and information is presented, as well as recommendations on counseling the nursing mother and her healthcare team to make informed decisions about maternal and infant care.
authors.affiliation: Saskatoon Co-op Pharmacy , Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada .
authors.forename: Sarah J
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Witzel
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*; D001688:Biological Products / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D001942:Breast Feeding / Q000523:psychology; D003657:Decision Making; D037001:Directive Counseling; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D007223:Infant; D007227:Infant Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007774:Lactation / Q000187:drug effects; D008297:Male; D008429:Maternal Welfare; D009035:Mothers / Q000523:psychology; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011247:Pregnancy; D011788:Quality of Life
chemical_list: D001688:Biological Products; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents