Which antibiotic is contraindicated for use in pregnant individuals?

Which antibiotic is contraindicated for use in pregnant individuals?

• A. Amoxicillin
• B. Clindamycin
• C. Ciprofloxacin
• D. Cephalexin

Answer: (C)

Ciprofloxacin is contraindicated for use in pregnant individuals due to its classification as a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, which has been associated with potential risks to the developing fetus. Studies have shown that fluoroquinolones can affect bone and cartilage development in immature animals, leading to concerns about similar effects in human fetuses. In contrast, antibiotics like amoxicillin, clindamycin, and cephalexin are generally considered safe for use during pregnancy. Amoxicillin is a penicillin antibiotic widely used to treat bacterial infections and has a well-documented safety profile in pregnant patients. Clindamycin, particularly for conditions like bacterial vaginosis or certain skin infections, is also viewed as safe with minimal risk to the developing fetus. Cephalexin, a cephalosporin antibiotic, is commonly prescribed and is likewise considered safe for use in pregnant individuals. Thus, while several antibiotics are deemed safe, ciprofloxacin presents unique risks that warrant its contraindication during pregnancy.

Ciprofloxacin is contraindicated for use in pregnant individuals due to its classification as a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, which has been associated with potential risks to the developing fetus. Studies have shown that fluoroquinolones can affect bone and cartilage development in immature animals, leading to concerns about similar effects in human fetuses.

In contrast, antibiotics like amoxicillin, clindamycin, and cephalexin are generally considered safe for use during pregnancy. Amoxicillin is a penicillin antibiotic widely used to treat bacterial infections and has a well-documented safety profile in pregnant patients. Clindamycin, particularly for conditions like bacterial vaginosis or certain skin infections, is also viewed as safe with minimal risk to the developing fetus. Cephalexin, a cephalosporin antibiotic, is commonly prescribed and is likewise considered safe for use in pregnant individuals.

Thus, while several antibiotics are deemed safe, ciprofloxacin presents unique risks that warrant its contraindication during pregnancy.