Antibacterial therapy in pregnancy and neonates

This article reviews the effects of the physiologic changes accompanying pregnancy on the pharmacokinetics of antimicrobials commonly employed during pregnancy. The possible adverse effects on the fetus from maternal use of antibacterials and their excretion into breast milk are reviewed. Principles of antibiotic pharmacology in newborn infants are summarized. The indications for use, dosages, and potential for adverse effects are reviewed for antibiotics currently in use and for several agents for which approval is pending for use in the newborn.