In studies on Augmentin and pregnancy, the antibiotic did not cause any problems when it was given to pregnant rats and mice. Although the drug crosses the placenta in humans, it does not appear to increase the risk of miscarriages or birth defects. Regardless, if you are taking Augmentin and pregnancy occurs, let your healthcare provider know.
Is Augmentin Safe During Pregnancy?
Augmentin® (
amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium) is a prescription antibiotic used to treat many different types of infections. It is likely safe for use during pregnancy. In clinical studies, Augmentin did not cause any problems when given to pregnant animals.
Augmentin and Pregnancy Category B
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) uses a category system to classify the possible risks to a fetus when a specific medicine is taken during pregnancy. Pregnancy Category B is given to medicines that have not been adequately studied in pregnant humans but that do not appear to cause harm to the fetus in animal studies.
When Augmentin was given to pregnant rats and mice, it did not cause any problems. Studies have shown that Augmentin crosses the placenta to the baby in humans, but it does not appear to cause problems. Although the medication has not been systematically and adequately studied in pregnant women, case reports and surveys seem to suggest that Augmentin does not increase the risk of birth defects or miscarriages.
However, since Augmentin has not been adequately studied in pregnant women, it may have negative effects that are not currently known. Therefore, a pregnancy Category B medicine should be given to a pregnant woman only if her healthcare provider believes that the benefits to the woman outweigh any possible risks to the unborn child.
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