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REMICADE and breast feeding (XP HIgh Risk Board)

FloandMarkFloandMark member
in Breastfeeding
I was diagnosed with Crohn's in January 2011.  Didn't find relief until I had surgery March 2013 and started on Remicade every 8 weeks. 

During the first trimester i had flare-like symptoms so they switched me to every 6 weeks  - no issues since then.  I will stop infusions at 32 weeks and then wait until after giving birth for my next infusion.

I know that Remicade is safe to breastfeed (the reason my GI has me on this particular drug as he knew we wanted to start a family) - I am asking more about logistics.  I thought I could get my post-pregnancy infusion in the hospital right after I gave birth, but my GI wants me to wait a week due to the risk for infection.

My infusion center is 45 minutes away.  I am usually there 3 + hours.  And then 45 minutes home.  That's a long time to be away from the baby in the first week!

Maybe this is stupid, but would it be safe to pump AT THE SAME TIME I am getting the infusion?  Any insight is much appreciated!
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Re: REMICADE and breast feeding (XP HIgh Risk Board)

  • vvvvvfeevvvvvfee member
    i don't see why you couldn't pump while receiving the medication.

    according to LactMed, it is "not detectable in breastmilk and absorption is unlikely because it is probably destroyed in the infant's gastrointestinal tract." (https://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/cgi-bin/sis/search2/f?./temp/~SqGv9w:1)

    according to InfantRisk, the drug has a high molecular weight, meaning it pretty much can't make it into your milk (https://www.infantrisk.com/content/drug-entry-human-milk)

    so, if it's not really getting into your milk in detectable amounts, then, yeah, why not pump at the same time you're receiving it? is it possible for you to bring your baby with you? that would be even easier.
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  • FloandMarkFloandMark member
    i did ask about bringing the baby but it is not permitted -- in the event that I have a reaction and need to be rushed down the street to the ER.

    Thank you for the links!
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  • FloandMarkFloandMark member
    That might work - depending on DH work schedule.  Not crazy about bringing a newborn to a doctor's office in November but it may be the best solution.  Thanks!
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