Augmentin in Pregnancy: Is it The Right Antibiotic for Moms-to-Be? 

Pregnancy is a crucial phase that requires utmost care. The immune system can take a blow during this time, making you more susceptible to infections. So, you might need antibiotics to get rid of them. 

According to the NCBI, antibiotics contribute to 80 percent of the entire prescribed medicines in pregnancy. This does not mean you can safely use any antibiotic of choice without consultation. Some of them can even cause adverse effects. 

This puts Augmentin, an effective antibiotic, into a position of doubt. Generally safe and well tolerated, can you use Augmentin in Pregnancy? Is there any risk to the mother and baby? What about breastfeeding? There are too many questions and just one answer. Your go-to guide at WowRxPharmacy! Keep reading to find answers. 

Is Augmentin safe in pregnancy

Augmentin is categorized by the FDA as a Pregnancy category B drug (no risk in animal studies). No proven risk of Augmentin has been found during pregnancy. So, a doctor may prescribe Augmentin if you have a bacterial infection. 

It reaches peak concentration in the umbilical cord after passing the placenta and fetus in 2 hours after administration and 5.5 hours in amniotic fluid. However, it is not linked to a risk of abnormalities. 

Augmentin in pregnancy first trimester

According to current evidence, Augmentin, which is a combination of drugs Amoxicillin and Clavulanic Acid, is safe during the first trimester of pregnancy. It is not associated with an increased risk of congenital malformations. However, consulting a doctor is important before using this drug. 

Augmentin in pregnancy second and third trimesters

According to a 2022 NCBI publication, Augmentin in pregnancy in 2nd trimester is considered safe as no proven risk has been explored so far. Augmentin does not increase the risk of preterm delivery and low birth weight. 

Augmentin in pregnancy 3rd trimester is linked with some risks. One large study found an increased chance of preterm labor (before 37 weeks). Some newborns may also be affected by Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC), which affects their intestines. However, the overall risk is very low. 

Augmentin for UTI in pregnancy

Augmentin is also prescribed for UTI in pregnancy, with a recommended dosage of 250 mg four times a day. However, you are advised to consult a doctor for the right prescription. To explore detailed information, read Augmentin for UTI. 

Augmentin dosage in pregnancy

The dosage of Augmentin in pregnancy depends on the infection it is used for. Normally, the adult dosage of Augmentin is 500 mg Amoxicillin and 125 mg Clavulanic Acid every eight hours or 875 mg Amoxicillin and 125 mg Clavulanic Acid every twelve hours. You should always consult a doctor for the right dosage to avoid complications. You can get Augmentin 375 at WowRxPharmacy at reasonable prices.

Augmentin during breastfeeding

Augmentin is safe during breastfeeding. Although it can pass through breast milk, it will not cause harm to the infant. For a dosage of 500 mg thrice a day, the baby will receive 0.1 mg/kg of Amoxicillin, which is within the acceptable range. Rarely diarrhea, rashes, or restlessness can occur occasionally. Learn more about it in detail with the guide Augmentin breastfeeding.

Side effects of Augmentin in pregnancy

Augmentin is generally safe in pregnancy. No particular side effects are known until now. However, there are some side effects of Augmentin, such as:

• Hives (red raised bumps/welts) 
• Itching 
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Painful intercourse
• Redness or rash
• Thick, white vaginal discharge with mild odor or no odor

Some side effects may not always need medical attention and go away during the treatment in a few days as the body adjusts to the medicine. Some of them can last till the treatment and resolve when the course is over. It is still best to consult a doctor if you experience discomfort. 

Some of them are rare but possible:

• Bloody or cloudy urine
• Fever
• Decreased urination
• Seizure
• Swollen legs and feet

Conclusion

Augmentin in pregnancy is safe and often prescribed to treat infections like UTI. Generally, Augmentin in early pregnancy causes no congenital abnormalities. However, in the third trimester, there is a minimal risk of preterm labor and Necrotizing Enterocolitis in infants. 

Augmentin is also safe for breastfeeding mothers. Depending upon the infection, your doctor can prescribe the right dosage for the best results. If you notice side effects like itchiness, rashes, cloudy urine, or fever, immediately stop the treatment and seek medical help. 

Sticking to the prescribed dosage and avoiding self-prescription ensures that you are not at risk of complications. Overall, Augmentin is a great option for treating infection for pregnant mothers and is also safe for their babies. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
• pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
• ncbi.nlm.nih.gov