Zovirax Cream and Breastfeeding

If you are using Zovirax cream and breastfeeding, it is unlikely that the medication will cause problems for your nursing infant. Although studies have shown that the active ingredient in the medication passes through breast milk, only a small amount is passed through the skin into the bloodstream. However, you should still talk to your healthcare provider about using Zovirax cream while breastfeeding with regards to your particular situation.

 

Zovirax Cream and Breastfeeding: An Overview

It is unlikely that Zovirax® cream (acyclovir cream) will cause any problems for women who are breastfeeding or for their nursing infant. However, women who are breastfeeding should be aware of a few precautions with regards to Zovirax cream.
 

Zovirax Cream and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?

Studies have shown that acyclovir (the active ingredient of Zovirax cream) passes through breast milk. However, these studies used acyclovir that was taken by mouth or intravenously (through an IV). With Zovirax cream, only a small amount of acyclovir is absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream, meaning that it is highly unlikely that the medication would cause any problems during breastfeeding. Many healthcare providers consider it safe for nursing women. However, if your healthcare provider recommends taking Zovirax cream while breastfeeding, you should still watch for any side effects in your child.
 
You may want to consider stopping breastfeeding if your herpes lesions are on or near your breasts, because the infection (and the Zovirax cream) could be spread to your nursing infant.
 

Zovirax Cream and Breastfeeding: Final Thoughts

You should talk with your healthcare provider about Zovirax cream and breastfeeding. Everyone's situation is different, and your healthcare provider understands your situation best. After considering what you want and expect, as well as your current health situation, you and your healthcare provider can make a shared decision about Zovirax cream and breastfeeding that is right for you.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;