Chemotherapy handling/transporting and breastfeeding

[mmmyan]

I am a pharmacist and I am currently breastfeeding. I occasionally need to handle chemotherapy agents, such as gemcitabine. I don't directly compound it, but I have to transport the compounded syringe from one space to the other. I am concerned about the potential contamination on the surface of the syringe itself and the pharmacy area. When touching the syringes, I do wear double gloves, but no gowns or face shields. I am wondering if it is still safe for me to breastfeed or should I hold off breastfeeding when I need to handle the agents.

Thank you for your help.

[admin]

MMMyan:

I think you are probably OK just transporting these therapies. Since you are concerned about transporting these syringes, perhaps you could suggest the pharmacists place them in a plastic baggy or small transport boxes.

Since you wear gloves, I don't think you have much risk.

Tom Hale Ph.D.