From the Guidelines
Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulanate) is considered safe for use during pregnancy, including a 10-day course, as long as the benefits outweigh the risks, according to the most recent evidence 1. When considering the use of Augmentin during pregnancy, it's essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks. The medication is classified as FDA pregnancy category B, indicating that animal studies have not shown harm to the fetus, and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women showing adverse effects. Key points to consider:
- The typical adult dosage ranges from 500-875 mg amoxicillin/125 mg clavulanate twice daily, depending on the severity of infection 1.
- It's crucial to complete the entire prescribed course, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
- Common side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, and vaginal yeast infections.
- Taking Augmentin with food can help reduce stomach upset.
- Always inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you're taking, as some may interact with Augmentin. The most recent study 1 supports the safety of Augmentin during pregnancy, and it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to evaluate individual circumstances and the nature of the infection being treated. Other relevant information:
- Amoxicillin-clavulanic acid is safe and can be administered during pregnancy 1.
- Glucocorticoids, which may be used in conjunction with Augmentin, have been reported to increase the risk of preterm birth, small for gestational age, low birth weight, intrauterine growth restriction, and neonatal intensive care unit admission, and should be given with caution in the first trimester 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
- 1 Pregnancy Teratogenic Effects Pregnancy Category B Reproduction studies performed in pregnant rats and mice given amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium (2:1 ratio formulation of amoxicillin:clavulanate) at oral doses up to 1200 mg/kg/day revealed no evidence of harm to the fetus due to amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium The amoxicillin doses in rats and mice (based on body surface area) were approximately 4 and 2 times the maximum recommended adult human oral dose (875 mg/125 mg every 12 hours). For clavulanate, these dose multiples were approximately 9 and 4 times the maximum recommended adult human oral dose (125 mg every 8 hours). 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.
The use of Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulanate) during pregnancy is categorized as Pregnancy Category B.
- There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
- Animal reproduction studies showed no evidence of harm to the fetus.
- The drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Given the lack of human studies and the recommendation to use the drug only if clearly needed, a conservative clinical decision would be to exercise caution when considering a 10-day course of Augmentin during pregnancy 2.
From the Research
Safety of Augmentin During Pregnancy
- Augmentin, a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid, is considered safe for use during pregnancy, as it belongs to the class of beta-lactam antibiotics, which have a long history of safe use in pregnant women 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Beta-lactam antibiotics, such as penicillins and cephalosporins, are generally considered safe for use in pregnancy, with decades of clinical experience documenting their pharmacokinetics and overall safety for the fetus 4, 6.
- The use of Augmentin in pregnancy is supported by its effectiveness in treating urinary tract infections, which can have significant morbidity if left untreated 7.
- However, it is essential to consider the potential risks and benefits of any antibiotic use during pregnancy, as well as the possibility of pharmacokinetic alterations due to physiological changes in pregnancy 3, 5.
- The safety of Augmentin during pregnancy is also supported by its classification as a beta-lactam antibiotic, which is considered safe for use in pregnant women, although careful monitoring and assessment may be necessary due to potential pharmacokinetic alterations 3, 4, 6.