Adapalene and benzoyl peroxide, and azelaic acid

[admin-james]

Finacea (Azelaic acid) and adapalene are only modestly absorbed via skin (<4%), and azelaic acid is rapidly metabolized. These two compounds are highly unlikely to produce clinically relevant levels in the milk, although we don't have specific studies examining this situation.
Benzoyl peroxide is addressed at the link below. It is one of the safest available treatments for acne in breastfeeding women.
http://mommymeds.com/node/1001944

Please feel free to post again or call us at the InfantRisk center if you have any more questions.

-James Abbey, MD

[mpk]

My dermatologist prescribed me the following medications for my acne, all of which she said would be fine while I am breastfeeding: Finacea (azelaic acid) gel 15% and Epiduo (adapalene and benzoyl peroxide) gel 0.1%/2.5%.

What are the risks of using these topical treatments?

Thanks!