Cytoxan and Pregnancy

An Overview of Cytoxan and Pregnancy

Cytoxan^® (cyclophosphamide) is generally considered unsafe for women who are pregnant. There have been reports of birth defects in children born to women who had taken Cytoxan during pregnancy.

 

Cytoxan and Pregnancy Category D

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 D is given to medicines that have shown clear evidence of risk to the fetus in studies. Pregnancy Category D is a stronger warning than a pregnancy Category C classification. A pregnancy Category D medicine may still be given to a pregnant woman if her healthcare provider believes that the benefits to the woman outweigh the possible risks to the unborn child.

 

Cytoxan was given a pregnancy Category D rating because of reports of birth defects in humans. However, the medicine has not been systematically studied in pregnant women. These birth defects included missing fingers or toes and various other birth defects.

 

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