Is Ixekizumab 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 Ixekizumab. The text below is quoted from that source — it is not our own verdict.
Summary of use during breastfeeding
Little information is available on the clinical use of ixekizumab during breastfeeding. Because ixekizumab is a large protein molecule with a molecular weight of 146,000 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] Some professional guidelines state that the drug is acceptable to use during breastfeeding.[3,4] Until more data become available, ixekizumab should be used with caution during breastfeeding, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant. Waiting for at least 2 weeks postpartum to resume therapy may minimize transfer to the infant.[5]
Effects on the breastfed infant
A mother with generalized pustular psoriasis was treated with ixekizumab during lactation. No outcome data on the infant were presented.[6]
Effects on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Levels in milk
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.
Alternatives LactMed lists
Source: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed), National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), via NCBI Bookshelf, record “Ixekizumab” (LM1225). 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.