Pentazocine in Pregnancy

Abstract

To the Editor.— The increasing use of pentazocine (Talwin) as an analgesic has led to many reports of dependence as well as abuse of the drug. Its use in pregnancy like most drugs is not recommended although no teratogenic or embryotoxic effects have been observed in reproductive studies in animals. This patient had a relatively prolonged administration of pentazocine during pregnancy. Report of a Case.— The patient is a 23-year-old white female whose last menstrual period was Nov 5, 1968. The first two months of pregnancy were uneventful. The third month was characterized by frequent and severe low pelvic cramps and occasional spotting. The pains were controlled by the intramuscular administration of 45 to 60 mg of pentazocine every four to six hours. This was continued for approximately one month. During the fourth month of pregnancy the patient received lututrin (Lutrexin) in dosage ranging from 8 to 12 tablets a