Is Dalteparin safe while breastfeeding?
Here is what LactMed, the Drugs and Lactation Database published by the U.S. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), reports about Dalteparin. The text below is quoted from that source — it is not our own verdict.
Summary of use during breastfeeding
Because of the low levels of dalteparin in breastmilk and its large molecular weight of 2000 to 9000 daltons, amounts ingested by the infant are small and it would not be expected to be absorbed from breastmilk by the infant. No special precautions are required.[1]
Effects on the breastfed infant
Although not clearly stated, it appears that 15 neonates were breastfed during maternal dalteparin use in one study with no adverse effects reported.[3]
In another report, one mother breastfed her infant for 20 days starting at 7 weeks of age while taking subcutaneous dalteparin 5000 IU subcutaneously twice daily with no adverse effects to her infant.[4]
Effects on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Levels in milk
Maternal Levels. In two women receiving subcutaneous dalteparin 5000 IU and 10,000 IU daily, respectively, dalteparin was undetectable in breastmilk.[2]
Anti-Xa activity (a measurement of anticoagulant activity) was measured in the milk of 15 patients before and 3 to 4 hours after 4 to 8 days at a daily dosage of 2500 IU subcutaneously. Anti-Xa activity in milk ranged from less than 5 to 37 IU/L which was 2.5 to 22.4% of the simultaneous maternal plasma anti-Xa activity.[3]
Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Alternatives LactMed lists
Source: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed), National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), via NCBI Bookshelf, record “Dalteparin” (LM80). LactMed on NCBI Bookshelf. LactMed is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Educational summary of an authoritative source — not medical advice. Never start, stop, or change a medicine while breastfeeding without confirming with your doctor.