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Jublia Pregnancy Category – Jublia (efinaconazole) is a topical antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections of the toenails and fingernails, known as onychomycosis. It works by preventing fungus from growing and is usually applied directly to the infected nail once daily for 48 weeks.
However, when a woman becomes pregnant, the use of medications and their safety requires special consideration, as certain drugs can harm the developing baby.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at whether Jublia can be used safely during pregnancy and the implications for treating nail fungus.
Jublia Pregnancy Category
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) previously assigned letter categories to indicate the potential for a medication to cause congenital disabilities if used during pregnancy.
Category B meant animal studies showed no risk to fetuses, while Category C indicated potential fetal risk in animal studies or no adequate studies in humans and animals.
Jublia was designated as Pregnancy Category C prior to the category system being removed in 2015. This means it should only be given to pregnant women if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
How Jublia Works
Jublia contains the active antifungal ingredient efinaconazole, which works by preventing the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes. Disrupting ergosterol production damages the cell membrane and ultimately halts fungal growth.
The topical medication is painted directly onto infected toenails or fingernails and surrounding skin once daily for 48 weeks. Only about 5% of the medication is absorbed into the bloodstream when used as directed.
Animal Studies
Reproduction studies performed in rats and rabbits did not show evidence of harm to the fetus when given doses of oral efinaconazole at 2 and 4 times the maximum recommended human dose.
However, oral absorption and distribution to tissues is likely considerably different between animals given an oral preparation compared to minimal absorption from topical use in humans.
No well-controlled studies have been conducted on pregnant women using Jublia. So, while results from animal studies are reassuring, definitive evidence of safety during human pregnancy is lacking. (Jublia Pregnancy Category)
Using Jublia While Pregnant
Ideally, treatment of fungal nail infections should be postponed until after giving birth. But if a severe infection develops that causes significant pain, discomfort, or risk of complications, using Jublia may be warranted.
Before considering use, women should discuss options thoroughly with their doctor. Applying only a thin layer to the affected nail and surrounding skin can help minimize exposure to the developing baby. Monitoring for side effects and prompt discontinuation if any occur is also advised.
Close follow-up prenatally can help detect any potential issues early on. However, risks of congenital disabilities or other pregnancy complications appear minimal based on current information if Jublia topical use is limited to brief duration’s. (Jublia Pregnancy Category)
Alternative Treatments
If Jublia is not recommended or a pregnant mom prefers to avoid medication, trying one of these natural remedies under the supervision of a doctor may help provide relief:
- Tea tree oil: Applying anti-fungal tea tree oil directly to nails may inhibit fungal growth.
- Vinegar soaks – The acidic vinegar environment makes it hard for fungus to thrive.
- Baking soda paste – Creates an alkaline environment to discourage fungal spread.
- Ozonated oils: The anti-fungal effects of ozone applied topically may clear infections.
- Laser or photodynamic therapy: Light technology also has anti-fungal properties.
Additionally, keeping feet clean and dry, wearing breathable shoes, eliminating injury risks, and trimming nails short can help prevent fungal overgrowth while pregnant. (Jublia Pregnancy Category)
After Pregnancy
If onychomycosis symptoms subside spontaneously during pregnancy, remaining fungus-free may be possible after giving birth. However, postpartum nail or skin changes can actually encourage recurrence.
In that case, restarting Jublia or oral anti-fungal medication could be appropriate. Treatment should be coordinated carefully around breastfeeding based on benefits versus risks. Checking with a pediatrician is also wise to ensure the safety of the infant. (Jublia Pregnancy Category)
Conclusion
Dealing with the discomfort of fungal nail infections can be frustrating at any time. But the responsibility of protecting a baby during pregnancy rightfully prompts caution regarding medication use.
While labeled Pregnancy Category C previously, Jublia has not shown definite harm in animal studies when given orally at doses far exceeding normal topical application.
Still, treatment during pregnancy is best avoided if possible or closely monitored under medical care if deemed necessary.
Alternative anti-fungal approaches, vigilant nail and foot hygiene, and lifestyle measures can also help pregnant women manage fungal growth without medications in many cases.
If problems return or progress after birth, Jublia’s topical anti-fungal properties may then prove useful under medical guidance.
Working closely with both maternal health providers and pediatricians allows pregnant and nursing women to make the most informed decisions about balancing treatment needs with safety for their babies when fungal nail infections occur.
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