Analgesics in Pregnancy and Lactation: Safe Medication Practices

Studies have found that the use of prescription drugs during pregnancy is common and has been increasing over time, with some researchers showing that two-thirds of women take prescription medications during pregnancy. Additionally, it is generally accepted that breastfeeding women take significantly more medications per month than pregnant women. Within the context of the recent opioid epidemic and renewed concerns for appropriately addressing patients' pain, along with the publication of recent guidelines and updated safety concerns for certain pain medications such as acetaminophen, some uncertainty may exist regarding the safe analgesic prescribing for pregnant and/or breastfeeding women. The purpose of this article is to provide an organized source of information about analgesic use for the pregnant or breastfeeding dental patient. With data regarding commonly used medications and pregnancy categories established by the US Food and Drug Administration, oral healthcare providers that are prepared with evidence-based information about the safety of medication use during pregnancy and breastfeeding can effectually advise their patients regarding medication therapy, helping to ensure healthy outcomes for both mother and child.