Heparin is classified as what type of drug in relation to pregnancy?

Heparin is classified as a Category C drug in relation to pregnancy, which indicates that it may pose risks in certain situations but also has potential benefits that can justify its use despite those risks. Category C means that animal studies may have shown an adverse effect on the fetus, and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. However, the potential therapeutic benefits of heparin, especially in preventing clot formation in pregnant women with certain complications, often outweigh the risks.

In contrast, other categories such as A indicate that there is no risk to the fetus in human studies, while B suggests no risks in animal studies and no risks in pregnant women. Category D is used for drugs that have shown evidence of fetal risk, but the benefits may outweigh the risks in life-threatening situations. Lastly, Category X indicates that the risks of using the drug during pregnancy clearly outweigh any potential benefit and it should not be used. Understanding these classifications helps healthcare providers make informed decisions about prescribing medications during pregnancy.