Antibiotics Use During Pregnancy Linked to Birth Defects

In November 2009, a study published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine discovered a link between the use of nitrofurantoins and sulfonamides antibiotics in pregnant women, and an increased instance of birth defects.

Nitrofurantoins are commonly used to treat urinary tract infections and have been marketed under the brand names of Furadantin, Macrobid and Macrodantin. According to the published study, the use of nitrofurantoins doubles or triples the risk of congenital heart defects and cleft palate birth defects when used during pregnancy.

Sulfonamides, also known as “sulfa drugs,” are some of the oldest antibiotics used in medicine, and have been found to cause serious birth defects, including rare brain and heart problems, as well as shortened limbs. Sulfa drugs have been marketed under the brand names of Bactrim and Septra.

Antibiotic Use and Birth Defects Study

The study evaluated data from more than 13,000 women who had children with birth defects, and more than 5,000 women who experienced healthy deliveries. Women who had taken antibiotics within a period of one month before conception to the first three months of pregnancy, were considered subject to antibiotic exposure.

Women who had taken commonly prescribed antibiotics, including Penicillin, erythromycin, cephalosporins and quinolones, did not show an increased risk of birth defects.

In light of the study, additional research is being conducted to further understand the link between antibiotics during pregnancy and birth defects. Pregnant women taking any of the aforementioned nitrofurantoins and sulfonamides are advised to speak with their physician about a proper course of action.

Filing an Antibiotics Birth Defects Claim

Women who have taken Furandantin, Macrobid, Macrodantin, Bactrim or Septra while pregnant and have a child with a birth defect should contact the birth defect attorneys of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis and Overholtz. They hold years of experience and expertise in filing claims against those responsible for birth defects. To learn more about filing a personal injury claim, contact AWKO Law at (888) 255-2956.