Post on Macrobid? Birth Defects?

pnwmama11

When I thought I had a UTI (I didn't). My OB told me they are not using this antibiotic with pregnant women anymore because it's been linked by the CDC to birth defects. Was anyone else told this as well?

JT325

Just butting in from TTGP.

 I get frequent UTI's and take Macrobid.... My urologist said I can take it up until I get pregnant, but cannot take it once I'm pregnant.  I have an appointment with my OB next week and planned on asking the same question. 

 

Luv2teach719

I just responded about this through my original post.  I've been doing some research and honestly, I haven't read a thing that says anything about the CDC being involved with the study.  But, also, the things I have read have said that yes, it could cause birth defects but when taken in the first tri (and let's face it, I read that a lot about any antibiotic when taken in the first tri).  I also read that they did this study on thousands of women and about 1/3 of them could not remember the exact antibiotic that they were on.  I'm not sure I trust this study to it's fullest extent.  If your doc feels strongly about it, then so be it, but apparently my on call doctor doesn't and feels it is fine (plus, I was on it at 17 weeks and according to every single u/s I have had-including an extensive one looking at the heart-all is fine).  

sillypit

I also replied in the original post, but I know someone who has a child with severe hypoplastic left valve syndrome because she took Macrobid while pregnant.  Her son had to have 3 heart surgeries by the age of 2, is now 3 and still doesn't talk and will have to have a heart transplant by the age of 9.  Not worth the risk IMO.

pnwmama11

Luv2teach719:

I just responded about this through my original post.  I've been doing some research and honestly, I haven't read a thing that says anything about the CDC being involved with the study.  But, also, the things I have read have said that yes, it could cause birth defects but when taken in the first tri (and let's face it, I read that a lot about any antibiotic when taken in the first tri).  I also read that they did this study on thousands of women and about 1/3 of them could not remember the exact antibiotic that they were on.  I'm not sure I trust this study to it's fullest extent.  If your doc feels strongly about it, then so be it, but apparently my on call doctor doesn't and feels it is fine (plus, I was on it at 17 weeks and according to every single u/s I have had-including an extensive one looking at the heart-all is fine).  

No offense, but you're not going to find actual studies with google..This isn't the only study that was done. Again, I trust my Dr and several other Dr's that have told my friends the same exact thing. 

I'm glad you're not worried though..You seemed so worried about that other antibiotic so again, I was just throwing it out there.. 

LCB34

My Peri still uses this drug for UTIs - as long as she isn't worried, I will continue to trust her judgement. 

Luv2teach719

No I appreciate it.  And honestly, this study also includes the other antibiotic I was on, as well.  So I guess, since I'm allergic to Penicillin, then I'm screwed because that's all I can take!  I'm sure taking it in the first tri is probably not good-but I'm sure there are a ton of antibiotics that aren't good then either.  Who knows?  

 We each have to go along with what our doctors tell us.  I trust mine, you trust yours, and that's all that matters in the long run!  I'd hate to think what could happen if I didn't take anything at all, though! 

 ETA-I agree that google isn't the best place to get advice, but I did check out the CDC website and there is no link to a study about Macrobid.  I have a 2 year old so I'm constantly checking things out on there. 

MissLara7

I was prescribed Macrobid at 19 weeks for a "borderline" UTI. I looked it up and it was prego category B.

pnwmama11

Luv2teach719:

No I appreciate it.  And honestly, this study also includes the other antibiotic I was on, as well.  So I guess, since I'm allergic to Penicillin, then I'm screwed because that's all I can take!  I'm sure taking it in the first tri is probably not good-but I'm sure there are a ton of antibiotics that aren't good then either.  Who knows?  

 We each have to go along with what our doctors tell us.  I trust mine, you trust yours, and that's all that matters in the long run!  I'd hate to think what could happen if I didn't take anything at all, though! 

 ETA-I agree that google isn't the best place to get advice, but I did check out the CDC website and there is no link to a study about Macrobid.  I have a 2 year old so I'm constantly checking things out on there. 

 

I'm glad nothing showed up on the CDC website. I really hope there is no connection or any adverse side effects. I just was trying to provide info I received from my Dr that's all. No worries. I'm also allergic to penicillin so we are in the same boat! I've been terrified about getting a UTI because who knows what I would be able to take! Hopefully you're feeling better, I heard UTI's are no fun!  

Luv2teach719

Thanks girl!  I appreciate your help--I really do! I hope you don't think that I was trying to start a fight!  

 And yes, being allergic to Penicillin SUCKS!  This other medication I was on said it could cause brain damage if taken in the last tri!  All this stuff is way too scary! Thanks again!  And here's hoping you don't get any UTIs.  I have a history (got four with my first!)  They aren't fun so I hope you don't have to suffer! 

pnwmama11

Luv2teach719:

Thanks girl!  I appreciate your help--I really do! I hope you don't think that I was trying to start a fight!  

 And yes, being allergic to Penicillin SUCKS!  This other medication I was on said it could cause brain damage if taken in the last tri!  All this stuff is way too scary! Thanks again!  And here's hoping you don't get any UTIs.  I have a history (got four with my first!)  They aren't fun so I hope you don't have to suffer! 

No! I didn't think you were trying to start a fight. I guess I wanted to make sure I wasn't coming across like I was right and everyone else is wrong, that's all! Sometimes I feel like written words can come across the wrong way or something, hope that makes sense!

Ugh fingers crossed I don't get one!!