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Impetigo during breastfeeding

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

Impetigo during breastfeeding

Topical fusidic acid, hydrogen peroxide or mupirocin can all be used during breastfeeding.

  • is limited or no published evidence of use of these topical medicines during breastfeeding
    • there is limited systemic absorption and therefore negligible levels are expected in breast milk

If systematic antibiotics are required then flucloxacillin is safe in breastfeeding (2):

  • if penicillin allergic then all macrolide antibiotics can be used during breastfeeding with precautionary infant monitoring (3)

Clinical considerations

  • care should be taken to avoid direct contact between the infant and impetigo lesion(s) and treated area.
  • if lesions are on the breast or close to the nipple, it may not be possible to feed from that breast, although this would need thorough assessment
    • infant feeding support should also be sought in order to effectively maintain milk supply.
  • hands should be washed after applying topical preparations and before touching the infant.

Reference:

  1. NHS Specialist Pharmacy Service (March 21st 2024). Treating impetigo topically during breastfeeding
  2. NHS Specialist Pharmacy Service (February 16th 2024). Using penicillin antibiotics during breastfeeding
  3. NHS Specialist Pharmacy Service (March 21st 2024). Using macrolide antibiotics during breastfeeding

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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