In this article we provide you a list of top 10 drugs that are generally advised to be avoided during pregnancy due to potential risks. However, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions, as they can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and circumstances.
1. Statins (Simvastatin, Atovastatin etc)
These are drugs used to lower cholesterol. They have been shown to cause fetal abnormalities in pregnant women and should not be used in women who are or may become pregnant. Why are statin Is so bad in early pregnancy?
Cholesterol biosynthesis is important in fetal development and statins can affect that.
2. Thalidomide
Thalidomide is teratogenic, meaning, it can affect embryonic development. This particular drug was initially made to be a sedative, it was later used to treat “morning sickness” in pregnant women amongst other things, but it resulted in children born to the mothers who took the said drug to be born with defective limb- some were born without limbs, loss thumb and the likes.
3. Tetracycline & Chloramphenicol
Tetracycline can harm the fetus. It affects the bone & teeth development of the baby. It can also cause the teeth of your child to be permanently stained while Chloramphenicol can cause gray baby syndrome and serious blood disorder.
4. Ciprofloxacin & Levofloxacin
They are both fluoroquinolone antibiotics. According to a study conducted in 2017, fluoroquinolone may also increase the chances of having a miscarriage. It can also cause problem to the baby’s muscle, skeletal growth as well as joint pains for the mother.
5. Primaquine
Is an anti-malaria, animal studies have shown that it can damage blood cells in a fetus.
6. Trimethoprim
They are antibiotics know as sulfa drugs. They can cause jaundice (yellowing of the eyes) in the baby. And also Trimethoprim can cause neural tube defects which may affect brain development in the developing baby.
7. Ibuprofen
Taking high doses of this drug can have dangerous consequences on pregnant mothers like; miscarriage, delayed onset of labour, jaundice, and it can increase the risk of bleeding for both mother and baby. Ibuprofen should not be used by pregnant women.
8. Warfarin
This particular drug can cause birth defects and should only be used when benefits outweighs the risks.
9. Lorazepam
This particular drug is used for treating anxiety or other mental disorders. It can lead to withdrawal symptoms and birth defects on the baby.
10. Accutane (Isotretinoin)
Isotretinoin is used to treat a severe kind of acne called nodular acne. Taking this drug during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects in babies and it is irreversible.
Related: What vitamins and minerals do pregnant women require?