Antibiotics in Pregnacy

 

18th September 2008

 

Antibiotics in Pregnancy

 

The President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland, Mr Raymond Anderson, welcomed the clear advice given by the Chief Medical Officers reiterating best practice in relation to the use of antibiotics during pregnancy.

Following the release of the a report by the Oracle Children's Study, where concerns have been raised regarding the use of certain antibiotics in cases of Spontaneous Premature Labour Mr Anderson said;

"The use of any drug is never risk free and at all times clinicians and medical professionals need to balance the risks with the benefits. Where there is clear evidence of an infection, the use of an appropriate antibiotic brings benefits to both mother and babies. Current best practice does not recommend the use of antibiotics in cases of Spontaneous Premature Labour, unless the mother's membranes have ruptured or there is clear evidence of an infection. This report does not change this advice."

"If an expectant mother has concerns, she should discuss these with any of the health professionals involved in her care, her doctor, midwife or pharmacist."

Speaking more generally, about the use and the inappropriate use of antibiotics the President went on to say;

"Over the past few years there has been an increased awareness that antibiotics should only be used where they are clearly indicated. Much work has been done to raise public awareness that antibiotics may not always be required. There is evidence that the inappropriate use of antibiotics has contributed to bacterial resistance and this must avoided. Should a patient have any questions or concerns about their medication, the local pharmacists are available to deal with any queries."

ENDS

Raymond Anderson, President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland

Editors Notes

  1. Initial article www.thelancet.com/
  2. Oracle Children's Study  www.le.ac.uk/cm/rs/oracle

For further information or for a spokesperson, please contact

Mark Neale, Head of Public Affairs on 02890 267932

or 07854 004884

mark.neale@psni.org.uk