Augmentin is a brand-name drug that’s prescribed for certain bacterial infections. Augmentin contains the active ingredient amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium. It’s unknown whether Augmentin is safe to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Keep reading for specific information about reproductive health and Augmentin. For a comprehensive look at Augmentin, see this article.
It’s not known whether Augmentin is safe to take during pregnancy. The drug hasn’t been studied enough to know for sure what effects it could have during pregnancy. In animal studies, Augmentin did not cause harm to the fetus when it was given to pregnant animals. However, animal studies don’t always predict what can happen in humans.
If you can become pregnant, talk with your doctor about whether Augmentin is safe for you to take. Your doctor may recommend taking it if the benefits of treating your infection outweigh the risks.
Amoxicillin, one of the active ingredients of Augmentin, is known to pass into breast milk in small amounts. It may cause sensitization in a child who’s breastfed. (With sensitization, a newborn is exposed to allergens, which may cause them to develop allergies.)
If you’re breastfeeding your child, talk with your doctor before taking Augmentin. They can determine whether the benefits of Augmentin treatment while breastfeeding outweigh the risks.
If you’re sexually active and you or your partner can become pregnant, it’s important to know how the use of Augmentin may affect your birth control decisions.
Some antibiotics, including Augmentin, might decrease how well oral birth control pills work. However,
Until more is known about this potential interaction, consider using a backup method of birth control while taking Augmentin.
Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.