Skip to Main Content

Appendix C: Drug Use in Pregnancy

INTRODUCTION

The developing fetus can potentially be affected by any medication given to the mother. The disastrous effects of thalidomide and stilbestrol on the exposed offspring led to the development of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) categories that are now assigned before a drug is released.

Table C-1 lists safe treatments for dermatologic diseases in pregnancy, and the common dermatologic diseases and drugs used for them. Previously, drugs were categorized by the letters A, B, C, D and X to classify safety during pregnancy. A new labeling system was implemented in 2015 to help make more informed decisions.

TABLE C-1Safe Treatments for Dermatologic Disorders During Pregnancy
View Table||Download (.pdf)
TABLE C-1 Safe Treatments for Dermatologic Disorders During Pregnancy
Disease Medication Name
Acne Topical clindamycin, erythromycin, benzoyl peroxide
Rosacea Topical metronidazole, azelaic acid
Psoriasis Topical glucocorticoids, calcipotriol, broadband UVB
Dermatitis Topical glucocorticoids, chlorpheniramine or diphenhydramine
Genital human papillomavirus infection Liquid nitrogen, trichloroacetic acid
Herpes simplex virus infection Acyclovir
Fungal infections Topical antifungals
Bacterial infections Penicillins, cephalosporins after first trimester, azithromycin
TABLE C-2Current FDA Categorization for Drugs Used During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
View Table||Download (.pdf)
TABLE C-2 Current FDA Categorization for Drugs Used During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnancy (includes labor and delivery):

  • Pregnancy exposure registry

  • Risk summary

  • Clinical considerations

  • Data
Lactation

  • Risk summary

  • Clinical considerations

  • Data
Females and Males of Reproductive Potential

  • Pregnancy testing

  • Contraception

  • Infertility

Pop-up div Successfully Displayed

This div only appears when the trigger link is hovered over. Otherwise it is hidden from view.

This site uses cookies to provide, maintain and improve your experience. MH Privacy Center Close