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Use of Azithromycin in Pregnancy: More Doubts than Certainties
Roberto Antonucci1, Laura Cuzzolin2, Cristian Locci3
1Pediatric Clinic, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy. rantonucci@uniss.it.
Azithromycin is a commonly used antibiotic in pregnancy. Current evidence does not conclusively link prenatal azithromycin exposure to adverse offspring outcomes, but use should be clinically indicated.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Obstetrics
- Neonatology
Background:
- Macrolides, like azithromycin, are frequently prescribed during pregnancy.
- Azithromycin's properties facilitate its use for various infections and conditions in pregnant individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and analyze literature on azithromycin use in pregnancy.
- To focus on potential adverse outcomes for offspring following prenatal exposure.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive narrative review of existing studies.
- Literature search conducted using MEDLINE, PubMed, and EMBASE databases.
Main Results:
- Studies on fetal and neonatal outcomes after prenatal azithromycin exposure show conflicting results.
- Some studies reported increased risks (miscarriage, malformations, preterm birth, low birth weight), while others did not.
Conclusions:
- There is currently no conclusive evidence that prenatal azithromycin exposure causes adverse offspring outcomes.
- Azithromycin should be used in pregnancy only when clinically indicated, balancing benefits against potential risks.
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