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Ask An Expert
Antibiotics during Pregnancy
Q: I'm taking amoxicillin for a strep throat. Is this safe in pregnancy?
A:
In general usage, the penicillins (to which amoxicillin belongs) are safe in pregnancy. Also cephalosporins, like Keflex, can be used. The antibiotic you're on is not only safe, but it is also the drug of choice for your throat.
The antibiotics we stay away from are Floxin, Cipro, and related compounds, and chloroamphenicol. We don't use Sulfur in the third trimester, because this particular substance can affect the bilirubin, which can collect in the brain and cause retardation. Tetracyclines (including doxycycline "Vibramycin") can stain a developing baby's teeth permanently and possibly affect bone development, so if anyone's taking tetracycline for acne, this must stop during pregnancy.
This is a general guideline, but as always, let your doctor decide.
Best Wishes,
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Dr. Gerard M. DiLeo is a board certified obstetrician-gynecologist who has been in private practice since 1981 and has served as Chief of the Medical Staff at Lakeview Regional Medical Center in greater New Orleans. Dr. DiLeo's new book The Anxious Parents' Guide to Pregnancy is now available.
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