betamethasone dipropionate .05% ointment

[jnoelmac]

Is betamethasone dipropionate .05% ointment safe for breastfeeding? I have eczema potentially brought on by the antibiotics that my 6 month old is taking. The rash is on my nipples and breasts, I have been instructed to wipe off and only use when it will be a long stretch to the next feeding but I am still concerned about it getting in the breastmilk.

The patches of eczema do not itch or hurt but look terrible and I assume won't go away on their own (though hoping that end of antibiotic treatment will help.)

[admin]

Dear jnoelmac,

Betamethasone dipropionate is a high potency steroid, it is not recommended to use high potency steroids on the nipple and breast, unless you wash it off thoroughly before you breastfeed.

I'd suggest you talk to your dermatologist again, regarding using a low-intermediate potency steroid. You can certainly use hydrocortisone, or mometasone (low to moderate potency) and continue to breastfeed.

Hope this helps!
Tassneem Abdel Karim MD
InfantRisk Center