Is Acyclovir(5 % W/w) safe during pregnancy?
Pregnancy: Teratogenic Effects: Pregnancy Category B. Acyclovir administered during organogenesis was not teratogenic in the mouse (450 mg/kg/day, p.o.), rabbit (50 mg/kg/day, s.c. and IV), or rat (50 mg/kg/day, s.c.). These exposures resulted in plasma levels 9 and 18, 16 and 106, and 11 and 22 times, respectively, human levels. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
Overall verdict
Use With Caution
Trimester-by-Trimester Guide
40 weeks · 3 stages · different risks
1st Trimester
Weeks 1-12 · Organs forming
Pregnancy: Teratogenic Effects: Pregnancy Category B. Acyclovir administered during organogenesis was not teratogenic in the mouse (450 mg/kg/day, p.o.), rabbit (50 mg/kg/day, s.c. and IV), or rat (50 mg/kg/day, s.c.). These exposures resulted in plasma levels 9 and 18, 16 and 106, and 11 and 22 times, respectively, human levels. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
2nd Trimester
Weeks 13-26 · Baby growing
Pregnancy: Teratogenic Effects: Pregnancy Category B. Acyclovir administered during organogenesis was not teratogenic in the mouse (450 mg/kg/day, p.o.), rabbit (50 mg/kg/day, s.c. and IV), or rat (50 mg/kg/day, s.c.). These exposures resulted in plasma levels 9 and 18, 16 and 106, and 11 and 22 times, respectively, human levels. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
3rd Trimester
Weeks 27-40 · Final development
Pregnancy: Teratogenic Effects: Pregnancy Category B. Acyclovir administered during organogenesis was not teratogenic in the mouse (450 mg/kg/day, p.o.), rabbit (50 mg/kg/day, s.c. and IV), or rat (50 mg/kg/day, s.c.). These exposures resulted in plasma levels 9 and 18, 16 and 106, and 11 and 22 times, respectively, human levels. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
Category C - Use Cautiously
Animal studies show adverse effects; weigh benefits vs. risks.
Brands Available in India
Acyclovir(5 % W/w) is sold in India under these common brand names. Check the strip or label: if a brand also contains other medicines, ask your doctor, because the extra ingredient changes the pregnancy advice. Tap any brand for detailed info.
Not medical advice
Every pregnancy is different. Always consult your obstetrician before taking any medicine. Drug safety classifications can change, so verify current guidelines with your doctor. For emergencies, call 112.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pregnancy specific sawaal? AI se directly pooch lo.
Acyclovir(5 % W/w) dose, safer alternatives, trimester-specific guidance, apni language mein.