What is the pregnancy category of Valsartan?

Valsartan is classified under pregnancy category D. This category indicates that there is positive evidence of risk to the fetus based on human data. It is known that the use of Valsartan during pregnancy can lead to adverse effects, particularly in the second and third trimesters, including potential harm to fetal renal function and increased risk of oligohydramnios, which can lead to lung hypoplasia and limb deformations.

The classification factors in how the drug affects fetal development and potential complications that may arise from its use. In contrast, other categories such as A, B, and C indicate varying degrees of safety and risk; category A being the safest (no risk to the fetus), and category C suggesting that risk cannot be ruled out but lacks definitive human studies demonstrating adverse effects. Therefore, the choice that Valsartan fits into is clearly category D, aligning with the recognition of associated risks during pregnancy.