The Basics
What is Pyrethrins?
Pesticides found naturally in some chrysanthemum flowers.
Brand names for Pyrethrins
N/A
How Pyrethrins is classified
Anti-Infective Agents, Antiparasitic Agents, Insecticides
Pyrethrins During Pregnancy
Pyrethrins pregnancy category
Category N/ANote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Pyrethrins while pregnant
N/A
Taking Pyrethrins While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Pyrethrins?
Because absorption after topical application is very limited, occasional pyrethrins and piperonyl butoxide use is acceptable in nursing mothers. Extensive exposure, such as from agricultural use or malaria control might have long-term health concerns because residues can be found in breastmilk.[1] Only water-miscible cream, gel or liquid products should be applied to the breast because ointments may expose the infant to high levels of mineral paraffins via licking.[2]
Maternal / infant drug levels
Because absorption after topical application is very limited, occasional pyrethrins and piperonyl butoxide use is acceptable in nursing mothers. Extensive exposure, such as from agricultural use or malaria control might have long-term health concerns because residues can be found in breastmilk.[1] Only water-miscible cream, gel or liquid products should be applied to the breast because ointments may expose the infant to high levels of mineral paraffins via licking.[2]
Possible effects of Pyrethrins on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Pyrethrins
Permethrin.
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/1. Bouwman H, Kylin H. Malaria control insecticide residues in breast milk: the need to consider infant health risks. Environ Health Perspect. 2009;117:1477-80. PMID: 20019894
2. Noti A, Grob K, Biedermann M et al. Exposure of babies to C(15)-C(45) mineral paraffins from human milk and breast salves. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2003;38:317-25. PMID: 14623482
3. Zehringer M , Herrmann A. Analysis of polychlorinated biphenyls, pyrethroid insecticides and fragrances in human milk using a laminar cup liner in the GC injector. Eur Food Res Technol. 2001;212:247-51.
4. Sereda B, Bouwman H, Kylin H. Comparing water, bovine milk, and indoor residual spraying as possible sources of DDT and pyrethroid residues in breast milk. J Toxicol Environ Health A. 2009;72:842-51. PMID: 19557612
5. Bouwman H, Sereda B, Meinhardt HM. Simultaneous presence of DDT and pyrethroid residues in human breast milk from a malaria endemic area in South Africa. Environ Pollut. 2006;144:902-17. PMID: 16564119
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
