See the DrugPatentWatch profile for acyclovir

Acyclovir is a commonly prescribed antiviral medication used to treat and prevent herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infections [1]. However, its safety during pregnancy is a concern for many women.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), there is no evidence of fetal harm when acyclovir is used during pregnancy [2]. However, it is still categorized as a pregnancy category B drug by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which means that animal studies have not shown a risk to the fetus, but there are no well-controlled studies in pregnant women [3].

Acyclovir crosses the placenta and can be detected in the cord blood and amniotic fluid of newborns [4]. However, no adverse effects have been reported in newborns whose mothers received acyclovir during pregnancy [5].

It is important to note that acyclovir should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus [2]. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should consult their healthcare provider before taking acyclovir.

In summary, while there is no evidence of fetal harm associated with acyclovir use during pregnancy, it is still categorized as a pregnancy category B drug by the FDA. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should consult their healthcare provider before taking acyclovir.

Sources:
[1] "Acyclovir" Drugs.com, <https://www.drugs.com/acyclovir.html>.
[2] "ACOG Practice Bulletin: Treatment of Genital Herpes Simplex Virus Infections" American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, October 2015, <https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2015/10/treatment-of-genital-herpes-simplex-virus-infections>.
[3] "Acyclovir" FDA, <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/acyclovir-oral-tablet>.
[4] "Acyclovir in pregnancy" Therapeutic Research Center, <https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/databases/food,-herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=933>.
[5] "Acyclovir" DrugPatentWatch.com, <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/acyclovir>.