Prilosec and Pregnancy

In animal studies that looked at Prilosec and pregnancy, Prilosec increased the risk of miscarriages when given in high doses to pregnant rabbits. Therefore, the FDA has classified Prilosec as a pregnancy Category C drug, meaning it may not be safe to take during pregnancy. However, various studies have suggested that Prilosec may be safe for use in pregnant women.

 

Prilosec and Pregnancy: An Overview

Prilosec® (omeprazole) is generally not considered safe for women who are pregnant. In animal studies that looked at the effects of Prilosec during pregnancy, the drug increased the risk of miscarriages.
 

Prilosec and Pregnancy Category C

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) uses a pregnancy category system to classify the possible risks to a fetus when a specific medicine is taken during pregnancy. Pregnancy Category C is given to medicines that have not been studied in pregnant humans, but do appear to cause harm to the fetus in animal studies. Also, medicines that have not been adequately studied in pregnant women or animals are automatically given a pregnancy Category C rating.
 
When given to pregnant rabbits at high doses, Prilosec increased the risk of miscarriages. However various observational studies suggest that Prilosec may be safe for use in pregnant women.
 

Prilosec and Pregnancy: Final Thoughts

If you are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant while taking Prilosec, let your healthcare provider know.
 He or she will consider the benefits and risks of using the medication during pregnancy before making a recommendation for your particular situation.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;