Meclizine Interactions

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary: Data from epidemiological studies have not generally indicated a drug-associated risk of major birth defects with meclizine during pregnancy. However, in a published study, an increased incidence of fetal malformations was observed following oral administration of meclizine to pregnant rats during the period of organogenesis, at doses similar to those used clinically. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. Data: Human Data: Epidemiological studies reporting on pregnancies exposed to meclizine have not identified an association between the use of meclizine during pregnancy and an increased risk of major birth defects. Animal Data: In a published study, oral administration of meclizine (25 to 250 mg/kg) to pregnant rats during the period of organogenesis resulted in a high incidence of fetal malformations. These effects occurred at doses as low as 25 mg/kg, which is approximately 2 times the maximum recommended human dose (100 mg) on a body surface area (mg/m 2 ) basis.