Cataflam and Pregnancy

While Cataflam and pregnancy have not been studied together in humans, pregnant animal studies suggest that the pain-relief medicine poses potential risks to a fetus. Cataflam can also possibly complicate labor and delivery -- and it should not be taken at all during the third trimester. The medicine should be prescribed to a pregnant woman only if her healthcare provider believes that its benefits outweigh the possible risks to her unborn child.

 

Cataflam and Pregnancy: An Overview

Most healthcare providers do not recommend taking Cataflam® (diclofenac potassium) during pregnancy because it can possibly cause problems to the unborn child or complicate labor and delivery. Taking Cataflam at all during the third trimester should be avoided. Early in the pregnancy, it is possible that your healthcare provider may recommend Cataflam. This is because he or she feels that the benefits to you outweigh the potential risks to your unborn child.
 

Cataflam and Pregnancy Category C

Cataflam is considered a pregnancy Category C medicine by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The 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 women but show side effects to the fetus in animal studies. It is important to note, however, that animals do not always respond to medicines the same way that humans do. A pregnancy Category C medicine may still be given to a pregnant woman if her healthcare provider believes that its benefits outweigh the possible risks to her unborn child.
 
If you are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant while taking Cataflam, let your healthcare provider know. He or she will consider both the benefits and risks of taking Cataflam during pregnancy before making a recommendation for your particular situation.
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;