Prograf Use In Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy: Human data show that tacrolimus is able to cross the placenta and infants exposed to tacrolimus in utero may be at a risk of prematurity, birth defects/congenital anomalies, low birth weight, and fetal distress.
The use of tacrolimus during pregnancy has been associated with preterm delivery, neonatal hyperkalemia and renal dysfunction.
Tacrolimus may increase hyperglycemia in pregnant women with diabetes (including gestational diabetes). Monitor maternal blood glucose levels regularly.
Tacrolimus may exacerbate hypertension in pregnant women and increase pre-eclampsia. Monitor and control blood pressure.
Females and males of reproductive potential should consider the use of appropriate contraception prior to starting treatment with tacrolimus.
Due to the need of treatment, tacrolimus can be considered in pregnant women when there is no safer alternative and when the perceived benefit justifies the potential risk to the foetus.
In rats and rabbits, tacrolimus caused embryofoetal toxicity at doses which demonstrated maternal toxicity (see Pharmacology: Toxicology: Preclinical Safety Data under Actions).
Breast-feeding: Based upon reports, tacrolimus is excreted into human breast milk. The effects of tacrolimus on the breastfed infant, or on milk production have not been assessed. As detrimental effects on the newborn cannot be excluded, women should not breast-feed whilst receiving Prograf.
Fertility: A negative effect of tacrolimus on male fertility in the form of reduced sperm counts and motility was observed in rats (see Pharmacology: Toxicology: Preclinical Safety Data under Actions).