Antibiotics and pregnancy

Is it safe to take antibiotics during pregnancy?

- Suzanna / North Carolina

Answer

It depends on many factors, including the type of antibiotic, how much you take, how long you take it and when in your pregnancy you take it. Some antibiotics are generally considered safe to take throughout pregnancy. These include penicillin, cephalosporins and erythromycin. Other antibiotics — such as streptomycin, quinolones and tetracycline — pose known risks to a developing fetus and should be avoided during pregnancy.

In all cases, the potential risk of a drug needs to be carefully weighed against the potential harmful effects of the condition if left untreated. If an antibiotic is the only way to cure your illness, your doctor should prescribe the safest drug possible at the safest dosage possible.

Be sure to tell any doctor you consult that you're pregnant — so this can be considered in treatment decisions. If you have concerns or questions about taking antibiotics or any kind of medications during pregnancy, discuss them your doctor.

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• Pregnancy Center

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