Crixivan and Pregnancy

Animal studies on Crixivan and pregnancy show that the medication may not be safe for pregnant women. When the drug was given to pregnant rats and monkeys, it increased the risk of extra rib growth and jaundice in the offspring. Due to these potential risks, healthcare providers should only prescribe Crixivan during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh any possible risks.

 

Crixivan and Pregnancy: An Overview

Crixivan® (indinavir sulfate) is a prescription HIV treatment. Based on animal studies, Crixivan may not be safe for use during pregnancy.
 

Crixivan and Pregnancy Category C

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (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 do appear to cause harm to the fetus in animal studies. Also, medicines that have not been studied in any pregnant women or animals are automatically given a pregnancy Category C rating.
 
When given to pregnant rats, Crixivan increased the risk of extra ribs in the offspring. In monkeys, Crixivan (when taken late in pregnancy) increased the risk of jaundice. Limited experience in humans suggests that Crixivan may be safe for use during pregnancy, although further studies are needed before the full risks and benefits are known.
 

Crixivan and Pregnancy: Summary

If you are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant while taking Crixivan, let your healthcare provider know. He or she will consider both the benefits and risks of Crixivan during pregnancy before making a recommendation for your particular situation. Be sure to seek early prenatal care, as women with HIV or AIDS need special care, both for themselves and for their babies.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;