PREGNANCY SUMMARY

No reports describing the use of nabilone in human pregnancy have been located. Dose-related developmental toxicity consisting of growth restriction and death was observed in two animal species. In addition, unspecified postnatal toxicity was observed in one species. Nabilone is structurally related to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9-THC), the active ingredient in marijuana. Although additional studies are needed, there is evidence that marijuana use in pregnancy is associated with developmental toxicity, such as growth restriction, long-term neurobehavioral deficits, and potentiation of the fetal effects of alcohol. (See Marijuana.) Because of the potential for adverse effects in the embryo and fetus, as well as the absence of human pregnancy experience, the best course is to avoid nabilone during gestation. Nevertheless, the use of this drug may be acceptable if other therapies, including hospitalization and treatment with IV antiemetics, have failed.