The Basics

What is Citriodiol?

Active ingredient that is effective against a range of biting insects, nuisance insects and ticks.

Brand names for Citriodiol

N/A

How Citriodiol is classified

Insect Repellents, Plant Extracts

Citriodiol During Pregnancy

Citriodiol 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 Citriodiol while pregnant

N/A

Taking Citriodiol While Breastfeeding

What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Citriodiol?

No published information is available on the clinical use of citriodiol (para-menthanediol; oil of lemon eucalyptus) during breastfeeding. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency consider citriodiol to be safe and effective during breastfeeding when used as directed. It should be used by breastfeeding women to avoid exposure to mosquito-borne viruses.[1] Avoid application directly to the nipple and other areas where the infant might directly ingest the product.

Maternal / infant drug levels

No published information is available on the clinical use of citriodiol (para-menthanediol; oil of lemon eucalyptus) during breastfeeding. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency consider citriodiol to be safe and effective during breastfeeding when used as directed. It should be used by breastfeeding women to avoid exposure to mosquito-borne viruses.[1] Avoid application directly to the nipple and other areas where the infant might directly ingest the product.

Possible effects of Citriodiol on milk supply

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Possible alternatives to Citriodiol

Diethyltoluamide, Icaridin, Insect Repellent M 3535.

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. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Avoid bug bites. Accessed 6-27/16. http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/avoid-bug-bites#repellent

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.

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