What does pregnancy category C signify?

Pregnancy category C indicates that the drug should be used with caution, particularly when the benefits to the mother may outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. This category is assigned to medications where animal studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women are lacking. Therefore, while there may be concerns based on animal data, the absence of human studies means that the medication may still be used if deemed necessary by the healthcare provider. This context underscores the importance of weighing the potential benefits of treatment against the risks involved, making it critical for healthcare professionals to assess each case individually.