Study of Benznidazole Transfer Into Breastmilk in Lactating Women With Chagas Disease

Study of Benznidazole Transfer Into Breastmilk in Lactating Women Treated for Chagas Disease

The investigators propose to study the transfer of benznidazole into breastmilk from the blood of lactating women who receive the drug for the treatment of Chagas disease. Breastmilk and blood samples will be obtained from these patients at given times after they take the clinically indicated medication, and the concentrations in both matrices will be compared to estimate degree of transfer, which in turn will be used to evaluate potential degree of exposure of infants breastfed by these women. This study will help clarify safety of continuing breastfeeding while receiving treatment with benznidazole for Chagas disease.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Lactating women with Chagas disease, not treated before
• Use of contraception

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of allergy to benznidazole or its excipients
• Pregnancy
• Significant heart involvement (due to Chagas disease)
• Significant systemic diseases that could affect the interpretation of the results in the opinion of the principal investigator