Breastfeeding, Remicade, and infant vaccines

[jrhall]

From reading other posts it seems that while taking remicade it is safe to breastfeed. The nurse that administers my remicade told me that the baby can't get vaccines for the first 6 months if you are breastfeeding while taking remicade. I don't really understand this. If it doesn't pass through the breastmilk (after first 7 days), why would it matter about the baby receiving vaccines (I assume she meant live vaccines). Thanks.

[copeace]

Hi,

I would suggest that you talk to the nurse and/or physician for further clarification as to why the infant should not be vaccinated for 6 months. I’m not sure why the nurse suggested this.

I discussed your question with Dr. Hale. Because the Remicade causes you (the mom) to be immunocompromised, we think the greater concern is any exposure you might get from the infant if the infant receives a live vaccine. The Remicade you are taking is not expected to cause the infant to be immunocompromised.

If you have any further questions, please call the InfantRisk Center at 806-352-2519. We are open Monday-Friday from 8:00am-5:00pm, CST.

Colleen Peace, BSN, RN
TTUHSC, InfantRisk Center