Who should not receive ticarcillin and clavulanate?

Ticarcillin and clavulanate should not be received by individuals who are allergic to ingredients in the medication or penicillin. The medication also is not for use by individuals who are taking tetracycline antibiotics. Women who use oral contraceptives should use an alternative means of birth control while using ticarcillin and clavulanate, as it decreases the effectiveness of oral birth control. It is important to tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, pregnant or plan to become pregnant while taking ticarcillin and clavulanate. The FDA has classified ticarcillin and clavulanate as a pregnancy Category B drug, which means studies indicate there is no risk to a fetus from the medication, but that the overall evidence is inconclusive. There are inadequate studies to determine if ticarcillin and clavulanate harms a nursing infant when passed through breast milk. A woman should discuss with her doctor the potential risks to her baby if she breastfeeds while receiving this medication.