Hydroquinone Cream while Breastfeeding

What is Hydroquinone Cream used for?

Is Hydroquinone Cream usage safe while breastfeeding? If a lactating mother is using it can there be any effect on growth or development of infant?

Hydroquinone while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 123-31-9

Benzene derivative which is topically used with creams and solutions (2-4%) as a bleaching agent for several skin disorders associated to hyper-pigmentation. In industry it is used as photographic developer. TLV or threshold limit value which means maximum exposure limit for workers is 2 mg / m3 (Flickinger 1976). At latest update relevant published data were not found on excretion into breast milk. It is well absorbed through the skin, both when used as a therapeutic agent (Bucks 1998, Wester 1998, Westerhof 2005, Andersen 2010, Bozzo 2011) or industrial use (Barber 1995, McGregor 2007), however, a significant excretion into breastmilk is not likely for their lack of fat solubility. There is controversy and doubt about a possible mutagenic and carcinogenic effect (Kooyers 2004, FDA 2006, Levitt 2007, Andersen 2010), so it does not seem wise a chronic or continued use while breastfeeding. Do not apply it on the breast to prevent ingestion by the infant; otherwise, do it just after a meal and clean the nipple thoroughly with water before the next feed.Do not apply it over large areas or on long-term treatments to avoid an excessive systemic absorption.

Hydroquinone while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 123-31-9

Topical hydroquinone has not been studied during breastfeeding. Hydroquinone is not contraindicated during breastfeeding and if hydroquinone is required by the mother, it is not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding. However, some experts feel that long-term use of hydroquinone is difficult to justify in a nursing mother.[1] If hydroquinone is used, ensure that the infant's skin does not come into direct contact with the areas of maternal skin that have been treated and the infant does not ingest the product from the mother's skin.

I am nursing mother and I have already used Hydroquinone Cream, what should I do?

I am nursing mother and my doctor has suggested me to use Hydroquinone Cream, is it safe?

If I am using Hydroquinone Cream, will my baby need extra monitoring?

Who can I talk to if I have questions about usage of Hydroquinone Cream in breastfeeding?