Prezista and Pregnancy

Based on information from animal studies on Prezista and pregnancy, the medicine is likely safe for pregnant women. Although the drug did not cause any problems in pregnant animals, it is important to note that ritonavir (a drug that is always taken with Prezista) has not been studied in animals. Therefore, if you are taking Prezista and pregnancy occurs, talk to your healthcare provider about the possible risks.

 

Prezista and Pregnancy: An Overview

Prezista™ (darunavir ethanolate) is a prescription AIDS and HIV medication. Based on information from animal studies, the medication is probably safe for use during pregnancy.
 

Prezista and Pregnancy Category B

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) uses a category system to classify the possible risks to a fetus when a specific medicine is taken during pregnancy. Pregnancy Category B is given to medicines that have not been studied in pregnant humans but that do not appear to cause harm to the fetus in animal studies. In animal studies, Prezista did not cause any problems when given during pregnancy.
 
It is important to note that Prezista is always used in combination with ritonavir (Norvir®), another HIV medication that is used to increase the level of Prezista in the blood (making it more effective). Animal studies have not evaluated the combination of Prezista with ritonavir during pregnancy.
 
It is also important to note that animals do not always respond to medicines the same way that humans do. Therefore, a pregnancy Category B medicine should be given to a pregnant woman only if her healthcare provider believes that the benefits to the woman outweigh any possible risks to the unborn child.
 

Prezista and Pregnancy: Final Thoughts

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