Expert: Kristy - 1/2/2007

Question
I was prescribed levaquin and diflucan at about 2 weeks pregnant. I told the docto i was trying to get pregnant and i could possibly be pregnant and he said the it could only cause harm to the fetus after 3 weeks. when i completed these i was prescribed 10 days of augmentin. I am now 6 weeks pregnant and very concerned about my babys outcome. so you think any of these medication will have an effect on my unborn child?  

Answer
Hi Amanda :)

Levaquin is catagorized by the FDA as a category C drug in pregnancy. This drug, can be harmful to an unborn baby,and cause neurological defects, and deformities in an unborn baby. Also, for future just know that this drug can also be passed through breast milk, if you nurse your child, and is not reccomended to take, while nursing.

As for Diflucan, the effects of Diflucan during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. Because you are pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Diflucan appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop breastfeeding until your treatment with Diflucan is finished.

Augmentin, is a category B drug. This means that it is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not, however, take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is also passed along through breastmilk, however has had no serious effects to the nursing baby. It will however cause yeast infections.

So as you can see Amanda, the Levaquin is a concern. The other 2, I really would be so concernced about at all. I would definately speak to your doctor about the levaquin. I dont know how long you were on the drug, and what dose you recieved, and this does make a difference.

Just remember, that just because a drug may not be reccomended during pregnancy, doesnt mean that your baby will have damaging effects. Its a risk, plain and simple. So please try not to be to upset, because babies in early pregnancy are extremely tough. However, should you have concern about the drug, the duration you took it, and dosage at the stage of your pregnancy I would most definately discuss this with your physician. If there is concern, I am sure your doctor will do the appropriate testing to assure there are no complications.

I hope this has answered your question, and should you have any concern, please dont hesitate to write back.

-Kristy