Is Tretinoin 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 Tretinoin. The text below is quoted from that source — it is not our own verdict.
Summary of use during breastfeeding
Tretinoin has not been studied during breastfeeding. Breastfeeding should be avoided during oral use and for 1 week after the last dose. Because it is poorly absorbed after topical application, it is considered a low risk to the nursing infant.[1] Do not apply tretinoin directly to the nipple and areola and ensure that the infant's skin does not come into direct contact with the areas of skin that have been treated.
Effects on the breastfed infant
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Effects on milk supply
A review of adverse reaction reports on retinoids causing a breast reaction submitted to a French pharmacovigilance center found 1 case of gynecomastia was associated with topical tretinoin use.[2]
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 “Tretinoin” (LM539). 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.