Vertinex Use In Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy: Animal studies are insufficient with respect to reproductive toxicity. However, potential harmful effect in animals cannot be ruled out. There is inadequate evidence of safety in pregnancy. Data from epidemiological studies do not suggest a risk of congenital malformations in children exposed in utero to prochlorperazine.
As a precautionary measure, Prochlorperazine (Vertinex) should be avoided during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks.
Neuroleptics may occasionally prolong labour and at such time should be withheld until the cervix is dilated 3-4 cm. Possible adverse effects on the neonate include lethargy or paradoxical hyperexcitability, tremor and low apgar score.
Neonates exposed to antipsychotics (including prochlorperazine) during the third trimester of pregnancy are at risk of adverse reactions including extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms that may vary in severity and duration following delivery. There have been reports of agitation, hypertonia, hypotonia, tremor, somnolence, respiratory distress, or feeding disorder. Consequently, newborns should be monitored carefully.
Breast feeding: Phenothiazines may be excreted in milk, therefore breast feeding should be suspended during treatment.