The Basics
What is Vemurafenib?
Can treat melanoma.
Brand names for Vemurafenib
Zelboraf
How Vemurafenib is classified
Antineoplastic Agents, Enzyme Inhibitors, Protein Kinase Inhibitors, Signal Transduction Inhibitors, Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors
Vemurafenib During Pregnancy
Vemurafenib 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 Vemurafenib while pregnant
N/A
Taking Vemurafenib While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Vemurafenib?
No information is available on the clinical use of vemurafenib during breastfeeding. Because vemurafenib is more than 99% bound to plasma proteins, the amount in milk is likely to be low. However, its half-life is 57 hours and it might accumulate in the infant. The manufacturer recommends that breastfeeding be discontinued during vemurafenib therapy and for 2 weeks after the final dose.
Maternal / infant drug levels
No information is available on the clinical use of vemurafenib during breastfeeding. Because vemurafenib is more than 99% bound to plasma proteins, the amount in milk is likely to be low. However, its half-life is 57 hours and it might accumulate in the infant. The manufacturer recommends that breastfeeding be discontinued during vemurafenib therapy and for 2 weeks after the final dose.
Possible effects of Vemurafenib on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Vemurafenib
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/None listed
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.