Cardizem LA and Pregnancy: An Overview
Cardizem LA® (
diltiazem hydrochloride) may not be safe for women who are pregnant. This is based on animal studies that looked at the effects of the drug during pregnancy.
Cardizem LA and Pregnancy Category C
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 C is given to medicines that have not been studied in pregnant humans but that 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.
Cardizem LA was given a pregnancy Category C rating because of potential problems in animal studies. When given to pregnant rabbits, mice, and rats, the drug caused increased miscarriages and birth defects (especially skeletal problems).
However, it is important to note that animals do not always respond to medicines the same way that humans do. Therefore, a pregnancy Category C medicine may be given to a pregnant woman if her healthcare provider believes that the benefits to the woman outweigh any possible risks to the unborn child.
Cardizem LA and Pregnancy: Final Thoughts
If you are pregnant or are thinking of becoming pregnant while taking Cardizem LA, let your healthcare provider know. He or she will consider both the benefits and risks of taking the drug when pregnant before making a recommendation in your particular situation.
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