Can You Take Gabapentin While Pregnant?

Gabapentin’s safety during pregnancy is not fully established. The FDA no longer uses the former pregnancy letter categories, including Category C. Animal studies have found developmental harm at some exposures, and human data are limited. Clinicians therefore weigh the potential benefits of treatment against possible risks for each patient. Available studies have not shown a clear increase in major birth defects overall, but the evidence remains limited and some studies have raised questions about specific defects and other pregnancy outcomes. Gabapentin crosses the placenta and passes into breast milk. Newborn withdrawal has been reported, particularly when gabapentin is used with opioids, but its frequency with gabapentin alone is uncertain. If you're pregnant or planning pregnancy, work closely with your healthcare provider to weigh the risks of untreated seizures or severe pain against potential medication effects.