Geodon and Pregnancy

In previous studies involving Geodon and pregnancy, the medication caused birth defects (such as heart and kidney defects) when it was given to pregnant rabbits. The drug also increased the risk of still births and newborn deaths when it was given to pregnant rats. Despite these potential risks, a healthcare provider can still prescribe Geodon to a pregnant woman if he or she believes that the benefits outweigh any possible risks to her unborn child.

 

Is Geodon Safe During Pregnancy?

Geodon® (ziprasidone hydrochloride) may not be safe for women who are pregnant. In previous animal studies that looked at the effects of Geodon during pregnancy, Geodon increased the chances of miscarriage and birth defects.
 

Geodon 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 rabbits, Geodon caused birth defects, including heart and kidney defects. In rats, Geodon increased the risk of still births and newborn deaths.
 
However, it is important to note that animals do not always respond to medicines in the same way that humans do. Therefore, a pregnancy Category C medicine may be given to a pregnant woman if the healthcare provider believes that the benefits to the pregnant woman outweigh any possible risks to the unborn child.
 

Recommendations for Geodon and Pregnancy

If you are taking Geodon and pregnancy occurs (or you are thinking of becoming pregnant), let your healthcare provider know. He or she will consider both the benefits and risks of Geodon during pregnancy before making a recommendation for your particular situation.
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;