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Eligard and Breastfeeding
In general, women who are breastfeeding should avoid Eligard (leuprolide). This medication is approved to treat a condition that only occurs in men; Eligard is not normally given to a woman. However, because Eligard can be given to a woman for off-label reasons, if your healthcare provider recommends this product, tell him or her if you are breastfeeding.
from eMedTV.comCan Women Who Are Breastfeeding Take Eligard?
Eligard® (leuprolide acetate) is a prescription medication used to reduce symptoms of advanced prostate cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs called gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists. Eligard comes as a long-acting injection, which can be given every one, three, four, or six months.It is not known whether this medication passes through breast milk. Eligard is not approved for use in women.
More Information on Eligard and Breastfeeding
No research has been done to see if Eligard passes through breast milk. It is also unknown if the drug affects breast milk production or can harm a nursing child. However, as mentioned, this product is only approved for use in men.Although other GnRH agonists are approved for use women, they typically are not recommended for women who are breastfeeding. This is because they have not been studied in breastfeeding women, so all potential risks to the nursing infant, and any potential effects on milk production, cannot be ruled out. Therefore, if you are a woman and your healthcare provider recommends that you take Eligard for an "off-label" (unapproved) use, make sure to let him or her know if you are breastfeeding.
Talking With Your Healthcare Provider
You should discuss breastfeeding and Eligard with your healthcare provider. Each woman's situation is different, and you and your healthcare provider understand your situation best. After considering what you want and expect, as well as your current health situation, the two of you can make a shared decision that is right for you.
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD