Donepezil Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Warnings

Donepezil is also known as: Aricept, Aricept ODT

Medically reviewed on January 8, 2018

Donepezil Pregnancy Warnings

This drug should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. (AU, US)
This drug should be used only if clearly needed. (UK)

AU TGA pregnancy category: B3
US FDA pregnancy category: C

Animal studies have not revealed evidence of teratogenicity; however, toxicity was observed in the peri and post natal period, slight increase in the incidence of stillborn births and a slight reduction in postpartum survival. There are no controlled data in human pregnancy.

AU TGA pregnancy category B3: Drugs which have been taken by only a limited number of pregnant women and women of childbearing age, without an increase in the frequency of malformation or other direct or indirect harmful effects on the human fetus having been observed. Studies in animals have shown evidence of an increased occurrence of fetal damage, the significance of which is considered uncertain in humans.

US FDA pregnancy category C: Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

See references

Donepezil Breastfeeding Warnings

Use is not recommended. (AU,UK)
Caution is recommended. (US)

Excreted into human milk: Unknown
Excreted into animal milk: Yes

The effects in the nursing infant are unknown.

See references

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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