The Basics
What is Fluorescein?
Used to help certain parts of the eye become more visible during eye medical procedures.
Brand names for Fluorescein
Fluorescite
How Fluorescein is classified
Contrast Media, Diagnostic Agents, Fluorescent Dyes
Fluorescein During Pregnancy
Fluorescein pregnancy category
Category CNote 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 Fluorescein while pregnant
N/A
Taking Fluorescein While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Fluorescein?
After intravenous use in a nursing mother, milk levels and the dose received by the infant are much higher. It is unlikely that these higher levels are problematic for most infants, but exposure to intense light, such as phototherapy, should probably be avoided for a few days after the maternal dose. Because absorption from the eye is limited, fluorescein would not be expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. To substantially diminish the amount of drug that reaches the breastmilk after using eye drops, place pressure over the tear duct by the corner of the eye for 1 minute or more, then remove the excess solution with an absorbent tissue.
Maternal / infant drug levels
After intravenous use in a nursing mother, milk levels and the dose received by the infant are much higher. It is unlikely that these higher levels are problematic for most infants, but exposure to intense light, such as phototherapy, should probably be avoided for a few days after the maternal dose. Because absorption from the eye is limited, fluorescein would not be expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. To substantially diminish the amount of drug that reaches the breastmilk after using eye drops, place pressure over the tear duct by the corner of the eye for 1 minute or more, then remove the excess solution with an absorbent tissue.
Possible effects of Fluorescein on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Fluorescein
None listed
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. Maguire AM, Bennett J. Fluorescein elimination in human breast milk. Arch Ophthalmol. 1988;106:718-9. Letter. PMID: 336998
2. Mattern J, Mayer PR. Excretion of fluorescein into breast milk. Am J Ophthalmol. 1990;109:598-9. Letter. PMID: 2333925
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.
