Is Ceftriaxone Safe in Pregnancy

Status

caution Last reviewed: 2026-05-16 · Confidence: high

Reason

Pregnancy Category B; use if clearly needed. Limited human pregnancy data. Consult your prescriber.

Drug Information

Brand Name
Rocephin
Generic Name
ceftriaxone
Drug Class
third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic
FDA Category
B
Rx Status
prescription

Safe Amount

Dosage must be determined by your provider based on individual risk/benefit.

Effects

Pregnancy
Use only when needed. Caution at term with ceftriaxone-calcium issues and newborn bilirubin displacement concerns.
Mother
May treat serious bacterial infection. Can cause allergic reactions and gallbladder/biliary problems in some people.
Baby
Animal studies did not show birth defects. Human data are limited. Ceftriaxone crosses the placenta.

Trimester Notes

1st Trimester
No evidence of teratogenicity in animal studies, but human data are limited. Use only if needed.
2nd Trimester
No specific trimester warning beyond general pregnancy caution. Use when benefits outweigh risks.
3rd Trimester
Use only if clearly needed. Extra caution near delivery because ceftriaxone can interact with calcium-containing IV products and may affect bilirubin handling in newborns.

Conditions & Warnings

  • Consult OB/GYN or prescriber
  • Prescription drug; do not stop or continue without provider review
  • Caution near delivery if the mother or baby is receiving calcium-containing IV products
  • Caution in newborns with jaundice or high bilirubin exposure

Alternatives

  • Amoxicillin if appropriate for the infection
  • Cephalexin if appropriate for the infection
  • Nitrofurantoin for certain urinary infections if your provider says it is appropriate

References

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