The Basics
What is Diethyltoluamide?
most common active ingredient in insect repellents
Brand names for Diethyltoluamide
Deet
How Diethyltoluamide is classified
Insect Repellents
Diethyltoluamide During Pregnancy
Diethyltoluamide 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 Diethyltoluamide while pregnant
N/A
Taking Diethyltoluamide While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Diethyltoluamide?
No information is available on the clinical use of diethyltoluamide (DEET) during breastfeeding. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency consider DEET to be safe and effective during breastfeeding when used as directed.[1] It should be used by breastfeeding women to avoid exposure to mosquito-borne viruses.[1][2][3] Avoid application directly to the nipple and other areas where the infant might directly ingest the product.
Maternal / infant drug levels
No information is available on the clinical use of diethyltoluamide (DEET) during breastfeeding. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency consider DEET to be safe and effective during breastfeeding when used as directed.[1] It should be used by breastfeeding women to avoid exposure to mosquito-borne viruses.[1][2][3] Avoid application directly to the nipple and other areas where the infant might directly ingest the product.
Possible effects of Diethyltoluamide on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Diethyltoluamide
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
2. Koren G, Matsui D, Bailey B. DEET-based insect repellants: safety implications for children and pregnant and lactating women. CMAJ. 2003;169:209-12. PMID: 12900480
3. Sudakin DL, Trevathan WR. DEET: a review and update of safety and risk in the general population. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol. 2003;41:831-9. PMID: 14677793
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.
