Which antibiotic can be taken during pregnancy?

• A. Penicillin
• B. Tetracycline
• C. Chloramphenicol
• D. Erythromycin

Answer: (A)

Penicillin is the best choice because it has a long, well-documented history of safe use in pregnancy. It crosses the placenta but does not cause birth defects, and it treats many common infections effectively, making it a preferred first-line option when an antibiotic is needed during pregnancy.

Tetracycline is avoided because it can affect fetal bone growth and permanently stain developing teeth.

Chloramphenicol carries a risk of serious adverse effects in the newborn, including gray baby syndrome and potential bone marrow suppression, so it’s generally avoided in pregnancy.

Erythromycin is considered relatively safe and is used when penicillin isn’t appropriate, but penicillin remains the preferred option when the organism is susceptible.