From the FDA Drug Label
Pregnancy Teratogenic Effects Pregnancy category B Reproduction studies have been performed on mice and rats using oral doses of cephalexin monohydrate 0.6 and 1. 5 times the maximum daily human dose (66 mg/kg/day) based upon mg/m2, and have revealed no harm to the fetus. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed
Cephalexin use in pregnancy should be approached with caution. The drug is classified as Pregnancy category B, indicating that reproduction studies in animals have shown no harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Therefore, cephalexin should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed 1.
From the Research
Cephalexin is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy, and its use is supported by the most recent and highest quality study available 2.
Key Points to Consider
- Cephalexin is classified as a pregnancy category B medication, meaning animal studies have not shown risk to the fetus and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women demonstrating harm.
- The typical adult dosage is 250-500 mg taken orally every 6 hours, or 500-1000 mg every 12 hours, depending on the severity of the infection, usually for 7-14 days.
- It's essential to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve before completion.
- Cephalexin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, and its safety profile during pregnancy is favorable compared to some other antibiotics.
- However, as with any medication during pregnancy, it should only be used when the potential benefits outweigh the risks, and should be prescribed by a healthcare provider who knows about the pregnancy.
- Side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, and potential allergic reactions, especially in those with penicillin allergies due to possible cross-reactivity.
Recent Study Findings
A 2017 randomized clinical trial published in JAMA found that post-cesarean delivery oral cephalexin and metronidazole reduced the rate of surgical site infection among obese women 2.
Important Considerations
- The study suggests that prophylactic oral cephalexin and metronidazole may be warranted for the prevention of surgical site infection among obese women after cesarean delivery.
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that antibiotics be used during pregnancy only when the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
- It's crucial to weigh the benefits and risks of using cephalexin during pregnancy and to consult with a healthcare provider before making any decisions.
Potential Risks and Benefits
- The benefits of using cephalexin during pregnancy include the effective treatment of bacterial infections, which can reduce the risk of complications for both the mother and the fetus.
- The risks of using cephalexin during pregnancy include the potential for allergic reactions, diarrhea, and nausea, as well as the possibility of promoting antibiotic resistance.
- However, the most recent and highest quality study available suggests that the benefits of using cephalexin during pregnancy outweigh the risks, especially in cases where the potential benefits of treatment are high 2.