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Zymaxid and Breastfeeding
No research has been done on breastfeeding and Zymaxid in humans; however, when the medication was studied in rats, it passed through breast milk. This is likely to be the same for humans. The risk this could present to a nursing infant is probably low, but to be safe, apply pressure to the tear duct after a Zymaxid dose, and wipe away any excess medication.
from eMedTV.comCan I Use Zymaxid While Breastfeeding?
Zymaxid™ (gatifloxacin) is an eye drop used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis ("pink eye"). It belongs to a group of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones, or "quinolones" for short.At this time, it is unknown if Zymaxid passes through breast milk. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding a child, you should talk with your healthcare provider before using this medication.
More Information on Breastfeeding and Zymaxid
No research has been done to see if Zymaxid passes through breast milk. Gatifloxacin (the active ingredient in Zymaxid) passes through the breast milk of rats. However, it is unknown if it also passes through human breast milk. Based on the chemical properties of the medication, many experts believe that it does.Zymaxid is an eye drop, however, and very little of it (if any) is expected to reach the bloodstream after normal use. Therefore, it is unlikely that the drug would reach the breast milk or the nursing infant. However, because it has never been studied in humans, it is unknown if this is the case.
If you are using Zymaxid while breastfeeding, use your finger to apply gentle pressure to your tear duct for at least a minute after inserting your dose into your eye. This will help reduce the amount of Zymaxid that could reach the breast milk. Then gently wipe away any remaining medication with a tissue.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD