Macugen and Pregnancy

Macugen and pregnancy is generally considered to be a safe combination. Since the drug is used for treating a condition that usually affects older people, however, it is not likely that a young woman would take Macugen. Pregnancy category B medicines such as Macugen can be prescribed to a pregnant woman if her healthcare provider believes that the benefits outweigh the risks to the unborn child.

Macugen For Macular Degeneration

Macugen and Pregnancy: An Overview

Macugen^® (pegaptanib sodium) is probably safe for use during pregnancy. However, it is used for wet macular degeneration, a condition that most likely affects older people. It is unlikely that a young woman would need to take the drug.

Macugen 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.

However, it is 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 the healthcare provider believes that the benefits to the woman outweigh any possible risks to the unborn child.

Macugen and Pregnancy: Final Thoughts

If you are pregnant or are thinking of becoming pregnant while taking Macugen, let your healthcare provider know. He or she will consider the benefits and risks of using the medication during pregnancy before making a recommendation in your particular situation.