Lodine XL and Pregnancy

Lodine XL is considered a pregnancy Category C medicine by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In studies that looked at Lodine XL and pregnancy in animals, the drug was shown to potentially cause fetal side effects. However, a healthcare provider can still prescribe Lodine XL if he or she believes that the benefits to the pregant woman outweigh the possible risks to the unborn child.

 

Lodine XL and Pregnancy: An Overview

Most healthcare providers do not recommend taking Lodine® XL (etodolac extended-release) during pregnancy because it can potentially cause problems in the unborn child or complicate labor and delivery. Taking Lodine XL at all during the third trimester should be avoided. Early in the pregnancy, it is possible that your healthcare provider may recommend Lodine XL if he or she feels that the benefits to you outweigh the possible risks to your unborn child.
 

Lodine XL and Pregnancy Category C

Lodine XL 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 humans 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 pregnant women if the healthcare provider believes that the benefits to the pregnant woman outweigh the potential risks to the unborn child.
 
If you are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant while taking Lodine XL, let your healthcare provider know. He or she will consider both the benefits and risks of Lodine XL during pregnancy before making a recommendation for your particular situation.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;