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Asclera and Breastfeeding
If you are a woman who is breastfeeding and Asclera (polidocanol) is a treatment you are considering, it is best to discuss the benefits and possible risks with your healthcare provider first. Clinical studies have shown that in rare cases, widespread exposure to this drug is possible, even though Asclera is injected directly into a vein, where it is designed to stay.
Currently, it is unknown if Asclera™ (polidocanol) is safe for use in breastfeeding women. If you are nursing a child, you should talk with your healthcare provider before receiving treatment with Asclera.
No studies have been done to see if Asclera passes through breast milk in humans, and it is not known if the drug would cause any problems for nursing children. Logically, it would seem extremely unlikely for Asclera to pass through breast milk, since, when injected properly, almost all of the medication stays in the treated vein, with little exposure to the rest of the body. This helps to limit the chance of passage through breast milk.
Nonetheless, during clinical studies, a few people did have measurable levels of Asclera in their bloodstreams after treatment. This suggests that in some people, widespread exposure to the drug may occur. However, it is still highly unlikely that an infant would be exposed to a significant amount of Asclera through breast milk.
Despite this, the manufacturer recommends that breastfeeding women not use Asclera. If your healthcare provider recommends Asclera while breastfeeding, be sure to watch for any possible side effects in your child.
You should discuss breastfeeding during Asclera treatment 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: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD



