Drugs in pregnancy

Labelling update regarding the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) beyond 20 weeks of pregnancy and risk of kidney damage to unborn babies

Retrieved on: 
Tuesday, June 8, 2021
Hepatotoxins, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, Medical specialties, Obstetrics, Human reproduction, Health, Pregnancy, Drugs in pregnancy, Diclofenac

Issue: The use of non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), starting from approximately 20 weeks of pregnancy or later, may cause rare but serious kidney problems in an unborn baby.

Key Points: 
  • Issue: The use of non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), starting from approximately 20 weeks of pregnancy or later, may cause rare but serious kidney problems in an unborn baby.
  • What to do: Donot use NSAIDs from approximately 20 to 28 weeks of pregnancy, unless advised to do so by your healthcare professional.
  • The use of NSAIDs remains contraindicated (must not be used) in the last trimester of pregnancy (i.e., beyond 28 weeks to the end of pregnancy).
  • Do not use NSAIDs starting from around 20 to 28 weeks of pregnancy, unless advised to do so by your healthcare professional.

Advisory - Use of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) beyond 20 weeks of pregnancy and risk of kidney damage in unborn babies, leading to low amniotic fluid

Retrieved on: 
Friday, October 30, 2020
Hepatotoxins, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, Medical specialties, Obstetrics, Health, Pregnancy, Reproductive health, Diclofenac, Drugs in pregnancy

What to do: While Health Canada is investigating this issue, the Department is advising pregnant women not to use NSAIDs at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless advised to do so by their healthcare professional.

Key Points: 
  • What to do: While Health Canada is investigating this issue, the Department is advising pregnant women not to use NSAIDs at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless advised to do so by their healthcare professional.
  • NSAIDs are commonly used to relieve pain and reduce fevers.
  • Donot use NSAIDs at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless advised to do so by your healthcare professional.
  • Report any health product side effects or complaints to Health Canada.