Can Pregnant Women Safely Use NORVASC and CONCOR?

Can pregnant women use this medication?

Hello, I would like to ask about my current situation.
I have been taking NORVASC 5mg and CONCOR 5mg for 5 years, but I want to get pregnant.
I am unsure if this will have any impact.
Note: 1.
I have consulted with a pharmacist here, and they said that NORVASC is not safe for pregnant women.
2.
I asked my cardiologist, and they said that if the obstetrician says it's not safe, we will switch medications.
3.
I also consulted with an obstetrician, and they mentioned that there have been no reported cases of birth defects in babies born to mothers taking these two medications, which is quite unhelpful because I want to get pregnant but I am scared.
Please help me look into this and provide me with advice.
Thank you, Ms.
Jiang.

Jiang Xiaojie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/12/05

Dr. Liao Lingmei reply Pharmacology

Dear Ms.
Jiang, I apologize for the late response! The U.S.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies Norvasc and Concor as Category C medications during pregnancy.
Category C means that there is evidence of adverse effects on the fetus in animal studies, but there are no well-controlled studies in pregnant women (which, understandably, cannot be conducted).
In Australia, Norvasc is also classified as Category C, indicating that it may cause harm to the fetus but the effects may be reversible.
For medications with such classifications, it is difficult to determine the safety of continued use during pregnancy.
However, from a medical standpoint, it is usually up to the physician to assess whether the benefits of continuing the medication for the mother's condition outweigh the risks to the fetus.
If so, they may recommend its use; otherwise, alternative medications may be considered.
Wishing you health and happiness!

Reply Date: 2007/12/05

More Info

When considering the safety of using Norvasc (amlodipine) and Concor (bisoprolol) during pregnancy, it is essential to understand the implications of these medications on both maternal health and fetal development. Both Norvasc and Concor are classified as Category C drugs by the FDA, which means that animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no well-controlled studies in pregnant women. This classification indicates that the potential benefits of using these medications may outweigh the risks, but this decision should be made with caution and under medical supervision.

Norvasc is a calcium channel blocker that helps to lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. It is commonly prescribed for hypertension and angina. While there is limited data on the effects of Norvasc during pregnancy, some studies suggest that it may not significantly increase the risk of congenital malformations. However, there are concerns about its use in the later stages of pregnancy, as it may affect uterine blood flow and fetal heart rate.

Concor, on the other hand, is a beta-blocker that is also used to manage hypertension and heart conditions. The use of beta-blockers during pregnancy has been associated with potential risks, including fetal growth restriction, bradycardia (slow heart rate), and neonatal hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Due to these risks, many healthcare providers recommend avoiding beta-blockers during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary.

Given your situation, it is crucial to have an open and thorough discussion with your healthcare providers, including both your cardiologist and obstetrician. They can assess your specific health needs, the severity of your hypertension, and the potential risks to both you and your baby. If the decision is made to continue with these medications, it may be under close monitoring to ensure both maternal and fetal well-being.

If you are planning to conceive, it might be worth exploring alternative antihypertensive medications that have a more established safety profile during pregnancy. For instance, medications such as methyldopa and labetalol are often preferred for managing hypertension in pregnant women due to their safety records.

In summary, while there is no definitive answer regarding the safety of Norvasc and Concor during pregnancy, the potential risks associated with their use should be carefully weighed against the benefits. It is essential to work closely with your healthcare team to determine the best course of action for managing your hypertension while minimizing any potential risks to your pregnancy. Always prioritize open communication with your doctors, and do not hesitate to seek a second opinion if you feel uncertain about your treatment plan. Your health and the health of your future baby are of utmost importance.

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