10 drugs that are less safe in pregnancy
No drug is completely safe in pregnancy. They all carry some risk.
But here are 10 drugs that are known to have greater risks during pregnancy.
- Anti-epileptics (anticonvulsants):
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Sodium Valproate: An anticonvulsant that may increase the risk of birth defects and developmental delays.
- Phenytoin: An anticonvulsant that can cause birth defects and developmental delays.
- Carbamazepine (Tegretol): Another anticonvulsant with potential risks of birth defects.
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Lithium: Used for bipolar disorder, it can increase the risk of heart defects in the baby.
- Warfarin: An anticoagulant that can cause birth defects and bleeding issues.
- Tetracyclines (e.g. doxycycline): Antibiotics that can affect bone and tooth development.
- Isotretinoin (Accutane): Used for severe acne, it can cause birth defects.
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ACE inhibitors (BP tablets; names end in ‘pril’): Used for high blood pressure, they can cause foetal kidney damage.
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Statins (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors; e.g atorvastatin): Cholesterol-lowering medications that may increase the risk of birth defects.
- Misoprostol: Used for ulcers, it can cause uterine contractions and potentially induce labor or abortion.
- NSAIDs (painkillers): including Aspirin and Ibuprofen
- Thalidomide: taken for a type of skin disease and myeloma.
Other drugs to avoid
Methotrexate, Diazepam
What should I do if Im on one of these and become pregnant?
Please do NOT stop these drugs if you are on them, and then become pregnant. See your doctor or midwife soon to discuss options.
Why? Even though these drugs carry some risk, many are low and/or theoretical. Also, if they are controlling a serious long-term illness (e.g. epilepsy, bipolar disease, or warfarin for a metal heart valve), there may be significant risks to the mother and baby if they are stopped – and these may be higher than the risks of staying on them.
Is it better to not take any medications at all?
Not necessarily. It does make sense to be cautious and try nondrug measures for many minor, short-term health problems. For example, instead of reaching for antihistamines and decongestants when you have a cold, try safer alternatives first: get extra rest; drink liquids; gargle with warm saltwater; and suck on nonmedicated lozenges.
However, for more serious long-term conditions, treating it with medication is likely to be better for both you and your baby.
Asthma is a good example. Uncontrolled asthma can lead to pregnancy complications such as high blood pressure, problems with the placenta, an increased risk of delivering the baby too early, and infants with low birth weights.
Other resource
Drugs that are safer in pregnancy
Longer list of drugs with potential problems in pregnancy
