[Amoxicillin-clavulanic acid in late pregnancy]

In 2001, a clinical trial on prophylactic antibiotics in preterm prelabor rupture of membranes reported an increased risk of necrotizing enterocolitis in newborns whose mothers were given amoxicillin-clavulanic acid before delivery. This study generated concern and reluctance to use this antibiotic in late pregnancy, despite its methodological limitations and the lack of confirmation in 3 studies published between 2001 and 2008. Since then, there have been no original publications on the topic. Therefore, the results available to date do not support an increased risk of necrotizing enterocolitis with the use of amoxicillin-clavulanic acid in late pregnancy. In clinical situations where amoxicillin/clavulanic acid is required, it can be prescribed at any stage of pregnancy, including just before delivery.