Safety of Augmentin During Pregnancy

Classification and Safety Profile

• The European Respiratory Society/Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand (ERS/TSANZ) task force categorizes amoxicillin/clavulanate as "Compatible" for use during pregnancy 1

Recommendations for Use During Pregnancy

• Amoxicillin/clavulanate can be used throughout pregnancy when clinically indicated for bacterial infections 1
• The benefit of treating maternal infections with Augmentin generally outweighs the theoretical risks to the fetus 2, 1
• When prescribing any medication during pregnancy, including Augmentin, clinicians should compare the benefits and risks, considering both maternal disease control and fetal safety 2

Special Considerations

• Augmentin is not recommended in women at risk of preterm delivery due to a very low risk of necrotizing enterocolitis in the fetus 1
• Reproduction studies specifically for the combination of amoxicillin and clavulanate have shown no increased occurrence of fetal malformations or harmful effects 1

Use During Breastfeeding

• The ERS/TSANZ task force considers amoxicillin/clavulanate compatible with breastfeeding 1

Clinical Decision-Making Algorithm

• Confirm the need for antibiotic therapy based on clinical presentation and, when possible, culture results1
• Consider Augmentin as a safe first-line option for appropriate infections during pregnancy 1
• If treating women at risk of preterm delivery, consider alternative antibiotics if clinically appropriate 1