There are many medications used in pregnancy to treat skin, hair and nail diseases as well as other conditions but their safety depends on their drug category. These 5 categories for drugs in pregnancy are determined by the FDA and are as follows:
FDA Categorization Of Drugs Use In Pregnancy
Category A
Adequate, well-controlled studies in pregnant women have not shown an increased risk of fetal abnormalities.
These are the safest drugs to use in pregnancy and the best drugs for pregnant women.
Examples include vitamins B9 (folic acid), C, D, E, thyroxin.
Category B
Animal studies have revealed no evidence of harm to the fetus. However, there are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women.
OR
Animal studies have shown an adverse effect, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus.
Examples include acetaminophen, amoxycillin, cephalosporins, doxylamine, erythromycin, flucloxacillin which is used to treat boils, penicillin, phenacetin.
Category C
Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
OR
No animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
These drugs can be used in pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Examples include gentamicin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, rifampicin, sertaconazole which is used to treat fungal infections of the feet.
Category D
Adequate, well-controlled or observational studies in pregnant women have demonstrated a risk to the fetus. However, the benefits of therapy may outweigh the potential risk.
Examples include streptomycin, tetracyclines.
Category X
Adequate, well-controlled or observational studies in animals or pregnant women have demonstrated positive evidence of fetal abnormalities. The use of the product is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant.
These are drugs to avoid in pregnancy as they should never be used by pregnant women.
Examples include isotretinoin which is used to treat acne, methotrexate, warfarin.
FAQ
Is Aspirin Safe To Take In Pregnancy?
Aspirin is not usually recommended to take during pregnancy unless you have certain medical conditions.
If you are not sure whether your drug is one of the medications used in pregnancy, always Consult a Doctor or a reputable site like this one.