Prilosec and Pregnancy

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

Prilosec Medicine

Is Prilosec Safe During Pregnancy?

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

Prilosec and Pregnancy Category C

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) uses a 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 that 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 the medication may be safe for use in pregnant women.

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 in your particular situation.