For patients
Sulfasalazine
SSZ
Are you a clinician? See the clinical version of this page.
The short versionSulfasalazine is usually continued through pregnancy and breastfeeding, taken together with folic acid. In some men it can lower sperm counts, which reverses after stopping, so if conceiving is taking a while your team may pause it and check.
- Take folic acid alongside sulfasalazine.
Through your pregnancy journey
Continue
Before pregnancy
Usually continued, with folic acid.
Continue
First trimester
Usually continued.
Continue
Second & third trimester
Usually continued to delivery.
Continue
Breastfeeding
Considered compatible; extra care if your baby is jaundiced or premature.
Use if needed
For fathers-to-be
Can lower sperm counts in some men; this reverses after stopping. If conceiving is taking a while, your team may pause it and check a semen sample.
iThis page helps you prepare a conversation with your care team. It does not replace individual medical advice. Always confirm your own plan with your rheumatology and pregnancy team.
!
When to call your team
- Do not stop without talking to your team.
- If you and your partner are having trouble conceiving and your partner takes sulfasalazine, mention it to your team.