There are no clinical trials evaluating the pharmacological management of AUD during pregnancy. However, in moderate to severe AUD, the risks of pharmacotherapy to the fetus should be weighed against risk of continued alcohol use. In all cases, whether medications are offered or not, patients should be offered evidence-based psychosocial treatment interventions and supports for AUD. A harm reduction approach should be used with all patients who continue to drink alcohol, along with the other components of their care plan (see the harm reduction tab here for more information).
Naltrexone and acamprosate are considered first-line AUD treatment agents for non-pregnant patients. The table below provides an overview of dosing and safety of these medications for pregnant individuals in reference to available literature.
See the BC Pregnancy Supplement and Medications for Ongoing Treatment for more information.
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