Can You Take Tamiflu While Breastfeeding?

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By Krystal Duhaney | Updated on Dec 3, 2023
Image for article Can You Take Tamiflu While Breastfeeding?

Yes, it’s generally considered safe to take Tamiflu, also known as oseltamivir, while breastfeeding. This is based on research indicating 1 that only minimal amounts of the drug are transferred into breast milk.

In terms of numbers, the levels of oseltamivir found in milk are quite low, specifically around 39 ng/mL. To put that into perspective, this amount is so minor that an infant would receive only approximately 0.5% of the mother's dose. 

Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2 (CDC) consider oseltamivir safe for use by breastfeeding mothers. Despite this reassurance, as with any medication, it’s always a good idea to discuss the use of Tamiflu with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s the right choice for your specific situation. 

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

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  1. "Oseltamivir"Mar 21, 2022https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501493/.

  2. Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion"Influenza (Flu)"Jan 12, 2021https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-special-circumstances/maternal-or-infant-illnesses/influenza.html.


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Updated on Dec 3, 2023

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Can You Take Tamiflu While Breastfeeding?

 Krystal Duhaney Profile Photo
By Krystal Duhaney | Updated on Dec 3, 2023
Image for article Can You Take Tamiflu While Breastfeeding?

Yes, it’s generally considered safe to take Tamiflu, also known as oseltamivir, while breastfeeding. This is based on research indicating 1 that only minimal amounts of the drug are transferred into breast milk.

In terms of numbers, the levels of oseltamivir found in milk are quite low, specifically around 39 ng/mL. To put that into perspective, this amount is so minor that an infant would receive only approximately 0.5% of the mother's dose. 

Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2 (CDC) consider oseltamivir safe for use by breastfeeding mothers. Despite this reassurance, as with any medication, it’s always a good idea to discuss the use of Tamiflu with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s the right choice for your specific situation. 

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

Want evidence-based health & wellness advice for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum delivered to your inbox?

Your privacy is important to us. By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Expectful uses only high-quality sources, including academic research institutions, medical associations, and subject matter experts.

  1. "Oseltamivir"Mar 21, 2022https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501493/.

  2. Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion"Influenza (Flu)"Jan 12, 2021https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-special-circumstances/maternal-or-infant-illnesses/influenza.html.


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