CASRN: 205923-56-4
Drug Levels and Effects
Summary of Use during Lactation
No information is available on the clinical use of cetuximab during breastfeeding. Because cetuximab is a large protein molecule with a molecular weight of 145,782 Da, the amount in milk is likely to be very low.[1] It is also likely to be partially destroyed in the infant's gastrointestinal tract and absorption by the infant is probably minimal.[2] Until more data become available, cetuximab should be used with caution during breastfeeding, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant. The manufacturer recommends that breastfeeding be discontinued during cetuximab therapy and for 2 months after the last dose.
Drug Levels
Maternal Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Effects in Breastfed Infants
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Effects on Lactation and Breastmilk
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
References
- 1.
- Stratigakis A, Paty D, Zou P, et al. A regression approach for assessing large molecular drug concentration in breast milk. Reprod Breed 2023;3:199-207. doi:10.1016/j.repbre.2023.10.003 [CrossRef]
- 2.
- Anderson PO. Monoclonal antibodies during breastfeeding. Breastfeed Med 2021;16:591-3. [PubMed: 33956488]
Substance Identification
Substance Name
Cetuximab
CAS Registry Number
205923-56-4
Drug Class
Breast Feeding
Lactation
Milk, Human
Antibodies, Monoclonal
Antineoplastic Agents
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.
Publication Details
Publication History
Last Revision: November 15, 2023.
Copyright
Attribution Statement: LactMed is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Publisher
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda (MD)
NLM Citation
Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; 2006-. Cetuximab. [Updated 2023 Nov 15].