can you take amoxicillin when pregnant

Amoxicillin is generally considered safe to take during pregnancy. It is classified as a pregnancy category B drug by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), meaning it is not expected to cause harm to the developing baby when taken in any trimester. Many studies in animals have shown no harm to fetuses, and while some human studies show a potential slight risk for birth defects like cleft palate in the first trimester, the majority do not demonstrate harmful effects on fetal development. Amoxicillin is commonly prescribed to treat bacterial infections during pregnancy because untreated infections can pose a greater risk to both mother and baby. It is important to take amoxicillin exactly as prescribed and complete the full course to avoid complications or antibiotic resistance. Pregnant women should always consult their healthcare providers before taking any medication, including amoxicillin, to ensure safety for their specific situation.