Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation Clinical Expert Series
Transcription
Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation Clinical Expert Series
Clinical Expert Series Continuing medical education is available online at www.greenjournal.org Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation Part 2. Drugs With Minimal or Unknown Human Teratogenic Effect Catalin S. Buhimschi, MD, and Carl P. Weiner, MD, MBA This is the second of a two-part series on the use of medication during pregnancy and lactation. Pregnancy risk factors together with an increased incidence of chronic diseases and the rise in mean maternal age predict an increase in medication use during gestation. However, as highlighted in the first installment of this series, relatively few medications have specifically been tested for safety and efficacy during pregnancy, and, therefore, responses to those inquiries can be uninformed and inaccurate. Whereas the first installment provided new insight into the nature of medications with known human teratogenic effects, this part concentrates on drugs with minimal or no known human teratogenic effect. It is important that clinicians become familiar with all of the aspects of the drugs they prescribe, in addition to the controversies surrounding them, through consultation with maternal–fetal medicine specialists and through references and Web sites providing up-to-date information in an effort to promote safer prescribing practices. (Obstet Gynecol 2009;113:417–32) P atients commonly inquire during prenatal care as to the effects of certain medications on their pregnancies. Unfortunately, clinicians typically have insufficient information about the risks and benefits of all the medications they prescribe. To help overcome this obstacle, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration introduced a classification of medications associated with fetal risks during pregnancy (Table 1). This system suffers many weaknesses, however, which were reviewed in the first part of this series. Part I provides new From the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, Kansas. The authors thank Kelly Horvath, MA, for her assistance with the writing and editing of the manuscript. Continuing medical education is available online at http://links.lww.com/A677. Corresponding author: Catalin S. Buhimschi, MD, Director, Perinatal Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, LLCI 804, New Haven, CT 06520; e-mail: [email protected]. Financial Disclosure The authors did not report any potential conflicts of interest. © 2009 by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Published by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. ISSN: 0029-7844/09 VOL. 113, NO. 2, PART 1, FEBRUARY 2009 insight into the nature of medications with known human teratogenic effects (Category X). This second installment concentrates on drugs with minimal or unknown human teratogenic effects. Table 2 lists some of the most common medications (in alphabetical order) with minimal or unknown human teratogenic effects. Categories A and B generally are considered safe in humans as approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Category C medications have not been definitively shown to be harmful to human fetuses, but reasons exist to be cautious when prescribing them. Category D drugs are those with evidence of human fetal risk based on well-controlled human studies, but the benefits of treatment outweigh the risks. Table 3 provides a summary of commonly prescribed drugs with minimal or unknown teratogenic effect. This information is based on the best available evidence at the time this report was written. The research strategy included computerized bibliographic searches (generic and dominant trade names) of MEDLINE (1966 –2008), PubMed (1966 –2008), and references of published articles. Meta-analysis studies were included only if the guidelines of the Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology Group were appropriately applied. The Ameri- OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY 417 Table 1. United States Food and Drug Administration Drug Classification System FDA Category* Pregnancy Category Definition A Controlled studies showed no risk to humans. Adequate, well-controlled studies in pregnant women have not shown an increased risk of fetal abnormalities. B No evidence of risk in humans. Animal studies have revealed no evidence of harm to the fetus. However, there are no adequate and wellcontrolled studies in pregnant women. or Animal studies have shown an adverse effect, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus. C Risks cannot be ruled out in humans. Animal studies have shown an adverse effect, and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. or No animal studies have been conducted, and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. D Clear evidence of risk in humans. Studies, adequate well-controlled or observational, in pregnant women have demonstrated a risk to the fetus. However, the benefits of therapy may outweigh the potential risk. X Drugs contraindicated in human pregnancy. Studies, adequate well-controlled or observational, in animals or pregnant women have demonstrated positive evidence of fetal abnormalities. The use of the product is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant. FDA, U.S. Food and Drug Administration. * Please verify the FDA categorization for each drug. can College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ Committee Opinion and Practice Bulletins also were used. For clinical relevance, trade names for the commonly used drugs also are included. Table 2. Commonly Prescribed Drugs With Minimal or Unknown Teratogenicity* FDA Classification† Drug Analgesics Aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen Antibiotics Penicillin-G, tetracyclines, ciprofloxacin, metronidazole, nitrofurantoin, azithromycin Anticholinergics Albuterol, atropine, dimenhydrinate Antihypertensive agents Methyldopa, hydralazine, labetalol, propranolol Antihistamines Cetirizine, diphenhydramine Antivirals Acyclovir Corticosteroids Prednisone, betamethasone, dexamethasone B–D (see class) B–D (see class) B–C (see class) B–C (see class) B B B FDA, U.S. Food and Drug Administration. * Drugs or drug groups with minimal or unknown human teratogenic effect (see Table 1 for an explanation of the safety categories). † Please verify the FDA categorization for each drug. 418 Buhimschi and Weiner CONCLUSION Whether or not to prescribe a drug for a pregnant or breast-feeding woman is a decision that must be made in consideration of many factors, including but not limited to, gestational age of the embryo or fetus, route of drug administration, absorption rate of the drug, whether the drug crosses the placenta or is excreted in breast milk, the necessary effective dose of the drug, molecular weight of the drug, whether monotherapy is sufficient or if multiple drugs are necessary to be effective, and even the mother’s genotype. Potential harm to the fetus or nursing infant is paramount among these factors. Large registries and case-control studies with longer follow-up periods are necessary before concluding definitively whether a medication is safe. Equally important is assessment of the potential harm to the mother that withholding a drug can cause. The decision, then, typically comes down to, “Does the benefit of the drug outweigh its risks?” However, accurately weighing benefit against risk requires a thorough understanding of those benefits and risks. Current methods to assess and classify drug risk are spotty at best. Pharmaceutical companies gain approval to market drugs before follow-up studies have been conducted on their long-term effects. Moreover, pregnant and breast-feeding women are not appropriate test participants precisely because of the risk of drug teratogenicity. This investigation scruti- Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY Table 3. Considerations for Drugs with Minimal or Unknown Teratogenic Effect Drug Analgesics Whole category (aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen) Aspirin Maternal Considerations Fetal Considerations Breast-Feeding Considerations Y Lack of consensus regarding management of women who have both antiphospholipid antibodies and a history of recurrent pregnancy loss reflects the wide range of clinical manifestations. Y A large cohort study concluded the antenatal use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin but not acetaminophen increased the risk of spontaneous abortion.1 — — Y Collectively, large trials Y Crosses human placenta. Y Compatible with demonstrate low-dose aspirin’s Y Associated with an breast-feeding.16,17,18 Y Some experts suggest relative safety during increased risk of fetal breast-feeding mothers use pregnancy and generally vascular disruptions, the lowest effective dose positive effects on reproductive particularly gastroschisis, and for the shortest outcomes. small intestine atresia, and duration taken after Y Understanding the mechanism possibly premature closure feeding. of action still incomplete.2,3 of the ductus Y Gastrointestinal lesions, renal or Y Women requiring high arteriosus.6,14,15 Y Should be avoided in the hepatic dysfunction, asthma, doses such as that used for first trimester to prevent hypoprothrombinemia, arthritis or rheumatic gastroschisis.15 tachypnea, hyperthermia, and fever should avoid breastlethargy are the most significant feeding because neonatal risks.4 salicylate levels may reach Y Has small but significant effect on toxic levels. reducing the rate of preterm delivery but not perinatal death.5 Y Used to improve pregnancy outcomes in women who have both antiphospholipid antibodies and a history of recurrent pregnancy loss: – theorized that aspirin interferes with the potential of these antibodies to compromise implantation and placental angiogenesis.6,7 – aspirin plus heparin remains the most efficacious treatment8 for women with a history of at least two spontaneous miscarriages or one intrauterine fetal death without apparent cause other than inherited or acquired thrombophilias.9 – however, in a 2002 randomized trial, a high success rate was achieved when low-dose aspirin alone was used for the treatment of antiphospholipid syndrome; the addition of low molecular weight heparin did not improve outcome.10 (continued) VOL. 113, NO. 2, PART 1, FEBRUARY 2009 Buhimschi and Weiner Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation 419 Table 3. Considerations for Drugs with Minimal or Unknown Teratogenic Effect (continued) Drug Maternal Considerations Analgesics Aspirin (continued) Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Apacet) Fetal Considerations Breast-Feeding Considerations Y Prescribed to reduce the risk of maternal thrombosis: – alone is not sufficient to prevent thrombosis. – not without risk: may contribute to maternal bleeding due to its effect on platelet cyclooxygenase enzymes, and clinicians often avoid recommending it during the third trimester. Y Use for prevention of preeclampsia also remains controversial: – several meta-analyses suggest a modest reduction in preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction.11,12 – but most recent meta-analysis indicates that antiplatelet agents are associated with moderate but consistent reductions in the relative risk of preeclampsia.13 Y One of the most widely used medications during pregnancy. Y Most common maternal problems relate to chronic abuse and overdose: – damage appears secondary to free radical toxicity with the consumption of glutathione during the acetaminophen metabolism. – N-acetylcysteine is the treatment of choice for an acute overdose.19 Y Used to treat the fever of Y Compatible with chorioamnionitis during breast-feeding.16,17,18 labor and associated with Y Some experts suggest breast-feeding mothers use improved umbilical blood the lowest effective dose gases (improvements in and for the shortest the umbilical cord duration taken after bicarbonate concentration feeding. and base deficit)20 apparently by reducing fetal oxygen demand as the maternal core temperature declines. Y Former suggestion that first trimester exposure in combination with propoxyphene is associated with clubfoot and digital abnormalities is not sustained by large series tests.21 Y Possible link between acetaminophen, gastroschisis, and small bowel atresia in the offspring of genetically predisposed mothers exposed to the drug early in pregnancy.22 Y The drug has no antiplatelet activity and does not pose a hemorrhagic risk to the fetus.23 (continued) 420 Buhimschi and Weiner Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY Table 3. Considerations for Drugs with Minimal or Unknown Teratogenic Effect (continued) Drug Ibuprofen (Advil, Alaxan, Brofen, Motrin, Paduden) Antibiotics Penicillin-G Tetracycline (Achromycin, Telmycin, Tetocyn, Tetracap) Maternal Considerations Fetal Considerations Breast-Feeding Considerations Y Compatible with Y Drug of choice for management Y Crosses human placenta. Y Fetal levels are dependent on breast-feeding.16,17,18 of postabortal pain, acute Y Some experts suggest maternal because postoperative pain, and breast-feeding mothers use nonsteroidal postpartum pain.24,25 the lowest effective dose antiinflammatory drugs are and for the shortest not efficiently metabolized by duration taken after the fetal kidney. feeding. Y As effective as indomethacin in closing the ductus arteriosus but possibly with less adverse effect on renal function.26 Y Chronic exposure of the fetus to the drug requires close follow-up because of its potentially lifethreatening effect (fetal right heart decompensation after critical constriction of the ductus arteriosus). Y Most penicillins cross Y Penicillin and its derivatives human placenta.31,32 (ampicillin, cephalosporins) are safe Y Large clinical experience and commonly used during with this drug is pregnancy.27,28,29,30 reassuring.33 Y Broad-spectrum antibiotic generally avoided during pregnancy because of fetal considerations.36 Y Alternative for the treatment of gonorrhea, syphilis, Listeria monocytogenes, clostridium species, Bacillus anthracis, Fusobacterium fusiforme (Vincent’s infection), and actinomyces species. Y When penicillins and fluoroquinolones are contraindicated, erythromycin(a tetracycline-class agent without the fetal sequelae) is an alternative for the treatment of gonorrhea and syphilis37,38; there is consensus that a test for cure is needed in both adolescents and pregnant women.39 Y High-risk conditions that require the treatment of bacterial vaginosis with oral clindamycin and erythromycin include women with prior preterm birth associated with symptomatic cervicitis, body mass index less than 19.8, and women with evidence of endometritis before pregnancy; a test for cure should be obtained 1 month later.40 Y Trace amounts enter human breast milk.34 Y Believed that exposure of the infant from a mother treated with this drug is minimal.35 Y Crosses human placenta. Y Enters human breast milk. Y May cause a yellow-gray- Y Considered compatible brown discoloration of the with breast-feeding.43 41 permanent adult tooth. Y Unlikely that topically applied tetracycline achieves a clinically relevant systemic level. Y Oxytetracycline (but not doxycycline) is associated with an increased risk of neural tube defects, cleft palate, and cardiovascular defects. Y Treatment with a tetracycline derivative, such as doxycycline, carries little if any teratogenic risk.42 (continued) VOL. 113, NO. 2, PART 1, FEBRUARY 2009 Buhimschi and Weiner Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation 421 Table 3. Considerations for Drugs with Minimal or Unknown Teratogenic Effect (continued) Drug Maternal Considerations Fetal Considerations Breast-Feeding Considerations Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan, Cipro) Y Bacteriocidal antibiotic belonging to the fluoroquinolone group; recommended when penicillinclass agents have no effect on gram-negative rods (eg, gonorrhea), and it has the best safety profile of second-line drugs for drug-resistant tuberculosis.44 Y Drug of choice for prophylaxis among asymptomatic pregnant women exposed to B anthracis and treatment of Q fever during pregnancy.45,46 Y Because fluoroquinoloneresistant gonorrhea disease is being identified more frequently, fluoroquinolones are no longer recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as first-line therapy (http://www.cdc. gov/std/treatment/2006/updatedregimens.htm). Metronidazole (Flagyl) Y Used widely during pregnancy Y Crosses human placenta. Y Excreted into human to treat bacterial vaginosis, Y Does not appear to have a breast milk. trichomoniasis, inflammatory teratogenic risk when used Y Considered compatible bowel disease, C difficile colitis, at the recommended with breast-feeding.63 62 and anaerobic and protozoal doses. infections.52,53 Y Several large randomized trials sought to determine whether the successful treatment of bacterial vaginosis reduced the prevalence of adverse outcomes, such as preterm birth, with mixed results:54,55,56,57 – treatment of women with asymptomatic bacterial vaginosis but no prior preterm birth apparently does not alter their risk of preterm delivery.58 – women who deliver preterm in association with symptomatic bacterial vaginosis have a lower risk of recurrent preterm birth if treated with clindamycin and erythromycin but not when treated with metronidazole.59 Y Concentrated in human Y Only a small fraction of breast milk.50 fluoroquinolones Y Neonatal Clostridium (ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, difficile pseudomembranous and levofloxacin) cross the colitis has been reported in human placenta.47 Y Short-duration treatment neonates breast-fed by with ciprofloxacin appears mothers treated with this free of adverse fetal drug.51 responses. Y The new quinolone, trovafloxacin, crosses the placenta but does not appear to be associated with an increased risk of malformation or musculoskeletal problems in either animals or humans.47,48 Y There are no clinically significant musculoskeletal dysfunctions reported in children in utero.48,49 Y Because these studies included a relatively small number of children exposed during the first trimester, longer follow-up and magnetic resonance imaging of the joints may be warranted to exclude subtle cartilage and bone damage. (continued) 422 Buhimschi and Weiner Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY Table 3. Considerations for Drugs with Minimal or Unknown Teratogenic Effect (continued) Drug Maternal Considerations Metronidazole (Flagyl) (continued) – metronidazole failed to prevent preterm birth in women with asymptomatic trichomoniasis.60 – of major concern is the observation that, in the great majority of randomized trials, the drug was actually associated with an increased rate of preterm birth.56,61 Y The absence of benefit coupled with a potential serious complication indicates that the drug should be avoided in preterm women. Nitrofurantoin (Furadantin, Furantoin, Macrodantin, Macrobid) Y Safe and effective for the treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria as well as acute and recurrent urinary tract infections: – resistance rates are less than 10%. – women with recurrent urinary tract infections are candidates for long-term antibiotic prophylaxis. Y Acute pulmonary reactions to the drug, presumably immunemediated, are uncommon but potentially life-threatening. Y Patients with glucose-6phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency may experience hemolytic reactions. Y Remains unclear how long a woman with asymptomatic bacteriuria should be treated; some suggest that short-term administration combined with continued surveillance for recurrent bacteriuria is sufficient. Y Pyelonephritis occurs in approximately 7% of women despite adequate treatment. Fetal Considerations Breast-Feeding Considerations Y Unknown whether it Y Actively transported into crosses the human human milk. placenta. Y Clinical experience Y Generally considered suggests that maternal oral compatible with pregnancy. ingestion is not associated Y No evidence of being a with neonatal adverse human teratogen. event. Y Although contraindicated Y Concern remains for during labor and in breast-feeding women newborns, there are no welltreated therapeutically if documented cases of they have a family history hemolytic reactions in of glucose-6-phosphate neonates. dehydrogenase deficiency or sensitivity to this drug. Azithromycin (Aruzilina, Y Treatment of choice for Y Less than 3% of maternally Y Small amounts are Zithromax) chlamydia. administered azithromycin excreted in breast milk in crosses the placenta. a dose-dependent fashion. Y Used in combination with artesunate for malaria prophylaxis. Y No adverse effects reported Y No neonatal adverse effects in humans. have been reported. Y Proved an ineffective treatment to reduce lower genital tract colonization with Ureaplasma urealyticum in women with preterm labor. Y When combined with doxycycline, it reduces the risk of postcesarean endomyometritis. (continued) VOL. 113, NO. 2, PART 1, FEBRUARY 2009 Buhimschi and Weiner Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation 423 Table 3. Considerations for Drugs with Minimal or Unknown Teratogenic Effect (continued) Drug Maternal Considerations Anucholinergics Whole category (albuterol, atropine, dimenhydrinate) Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin) Fetal Considerations Breast-Feeding Considerations — — Y This class of pharmaceutical compounds reduces the effects mediated by acetylcholine in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Crosses the human placenta, Y though the kinetics remain to be elucidated. Y Less than 10% is absorbed when administered by inhalation. No convincing evidence of teratogenicity after first trimester exposure. Y In general, long-term followup studies of infants exposed to beta-mimetic tocolysis are reassuring. Y Previously used for asthma control Y during pregnancy.64 Y Mean maternal blood pressures and heart rates were unaffected. Y Y In some countries, the drug is used as a tocolytic agent but there is no evidence that it retards either pretermY or term labor. Atropine (Atropen, Y No adequate reports or wellAtropinol, Atropisol, controlled studies in pregnant Borotropin) women. Y Generally used for treatment of symptomatic bradycardia and organophosphate poisoning and as an adjunct to anesthesia. Dimenhydrinate (Amosyt, Y Biodramina, Dimetabs, Wehamine) Y Unknown whether it enters human breast milk. Generally considered compatible with breast-feeding. Y Rapidly crosses the human Y Unknown whether it enters placenta. human breast milk. Y Fetus will respond to the direct administration of this medication with tachycardia. Y Popular agent for the relief of nausea and vomiting during Y pregnancy. Recent randomized trial concluded that ginger is as effective as the drug for the treatment of hyperemesis gravidarum and has fewer side effects.65 Y Both dimenhydrinate and diphenhydramine are considered treatment options for severe migraine headache during pregnancy.66 Y Caution is warranted because several investigators have reported an increase in uterine activity with dimenhydrinate.67 Unknown whether it Y crosses human placenta. No indication that this drug increases the risk of fetal abnormalities when given Y at any stage of pregnancy. Antihypertensives Whole category Y Approximately 3% of women take an (methyldopa, antihypertensive during pregnancy.68 hydralazine, labetalol, Y ACOG recommends treatment for women with a systolic blood pressure propanolol) higher than 170 mmHg and/or a diastolic blood pressure above 109 mmHg. 69 — Excreted in small quantities into human breast milk, though the kinetics are yet to be elucidated. Long clinical experience is reassuring. — (continued) 424 Buhimschi and Weiner Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY Table 3. Considerations for Drugs with Minimal or Unknown Teratogenic Effect (continued) Drug Maternal Considerations Fetal Considerations Breast-Feeding Considerations Whole category Y There is no consensus whether (methyldopa, lesser degrees of hypertension hydralazine, labetalol, require treatment during propanolol) pregnancy because (continued) antihypertensive therapy improves only the maternal, not the fetal, outcome in women with mild to moderate chronic hypertension.69 Methyldopa (Aldomet, Alfametildopa) Y One of the best-studied antihypertensives during pregnancy, remaining a popular agent for the treatment of moderate to mild hypertension.70,71 Y Leads to blockage of the sympathetic nervous system (centrally and peripherally) through an alpha-2 receptornegative feedback mechanism. Y Depending on the patient, the drug may be suboptimal because at least 48 to 72 hours are required to see an effect. Y Less effective than metoprolol but as effective as nifedipine, labetalol, and ketanserin in decreasing both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in women with chronic hypertension.72 Y Most antihypertensive Y Enters human breast milk. agents cross the placenta. Y Breast-fed neonates are Y Considered safe for use normotensive.76 during the first trimester of Y Increases the risk of neonatal hypoglycemia, pregnancy.73 Y Neither significantly alters but this effect may be fetal cardiac activity nor blunted by supplementing produces fetal with glucose-fortified hemodynamic changes as formula.77 measured by Doppler velocimetry.74 Y Recently, the effects of various antihypertensive medications on fetoplacental circulation were studied in vitro:75 – in contrast to labetalol, hydralazine, nifedipine, and magnesium sulfate, methyldopa was less likely to produce significant direct effects on fetal vasculature. Y Other studies suggest the drug decreases placental vascular resistance in mild preeclampsia and in chronic hypertension. Hydralazine (Apresoline) Y Hydralazine and labetalol are Y Most antihypertensive the most widely used drugs for agents cross the placenta. the treatment of acute Y Clinical experience hypertension during suggests the drug is safe pregnancy.78 during the first trimester. Y Mechanism of action is incompletely understood, but it has been proposed that hydralazine works through a cyclic guanosine monophosphate–mediated mechanism, resulting in smooth muscle relaxation. Y In two recent randomized trials, the drug was as safe and as effective as diazoxide and labetalol for the treatment of hypertensive emergencies during the antenatal and postpartal periods.79,80 Y Enters human breast milk. Y Breast-fed neonates are normotensive.76 (continued) VOL. 113, NO. 2, PART 1, FEBRUARY 2009 Buhimschi and Weiner Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation 425 Table 3. Considerations for Drugs with Minimal or Unknown Teratogenic Effect (continued) Drug Maternal Considerations Breast-Feeding Considerations Fetal Considerations Labetalol (Coreton, Normo-dyne, Trandate) Y Hydralazine and labetalol are the most widely used drugs for the treatment of acute hypertension during pregnancy.78 Y Combines alpha- and betaadrenoceptor antagonist properties. Y When given intravenously, the drug is associated with a higher risk of hypotension and cesarean delivery than diazoxide.81 Propanalol (Inderal) Y Used extensively during Y Most antihypertensive pregnancy for the treatment of agents cross the placenta. maternal hypertension, arrhythmia, and migraine headache.66 Y Generally considered safe unless the dose given compromises maternal cardiac output. Y Also used acutely to provide relief of symptoms from thyrotoxicosis and pheochromocytoma.86,87 Y Studies of use for hypertension are small; it appears as effective as methyldopa and is often coupled with other hypotensive agents such as hydralazine.88 Y Enters human breast milk. Y Breast-fed neonates are normotensive.76 Y Unknown whether it Y Not adequately studied in crosses the human human pregnancy. placenta. Y Commonly prescribed for Y Not known as a human allergic rhinitis during teratogen. pregnancy. Y The advantage of this drug over many other antihistaminic drugs is that it does not cause clinically significant cardiac QTinterval prolongation.89 Y Enters human breast milk. Y Irritability is the most common adverse reaction reported in the newborns of women using antihistamines while breast-feeding. . Antihistamines Cetirizine (Zyrtec) Y Enters human breast milk. Y Most antihypertensive Y Breast-fed neonates are agents cross the placenta. normotensive.7 Y Large doses given intravenously can cause fetal bradycardia, hypoglycemia, hypotension, pericardial effusion, myocardial hypertrophy, and fetal death due to acute hypotension:82,83 – based on these risks, an initial intravenous dose of 5–10 mg is recommended – similar responses are unlikely with oral therapy. Y Overall, neonatal outcome is similar to that achieved with hydralazine.84 Y May be useful for the treatment of fetal thyrotoxicosis.85 (continued) 426 Buhimschi and Weiner Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY Table 3. Considerations for Drugs with Minimal or Unknown Teratogenic Effect (continued) Drug Maternal Considerations Cetirizine (Zyrtec) (continued) Y The product label may state that medications for allergic rhinitis should be avoided during pregnancy because of a lack of fetal safety, but the majority of human data refutes this position. Diphenhy-dramine (Benadryl) Y Not adequately studied in human pregnancy. Y Useful adjunct for women who have allergic reactions to local anesthesia, laminaria, and serum albumin and for the treatment of severe migraine headaches.90,91 Antivirals Acyclovir Corticosteroids Whole category (prednisone, betamethasone, dexamethasone) Fetal Considerations Breast-Feeding Considerations Y Crosses the human placenta Y Unknown whether it enters but, the kinetics remain to breast milk. be elucidated. Y Irritability is the most Y No evidence of increased common adverse reaction fetal risk if administered reported in the newborns of during any stage of women using antihistamines pregnancy. while breast-feeding Y May cause neonatal depression if administered during labor. Y Y All suspected herpes virus Y infections should be confirmed through viral or serological testing.92 Y Treatment of genital herpes with this drug during pregnancy is not Y curative but does reduce the duration of symptoms and viral shedding.93 Y Long clinical experience is reassuring. Y Based on several studies, ACOG recommends prophylactic acyclovir at 36 weeks to reduce the risks of recurrent genital herpes and thus potentially avoid cesarean delivery.94 Y Suppression therapy is both effective and cost-effective whether or not the primary infection occurs during the current pregnancy. Crosses the human placenta. Y Concentrated in the amniotic fluid, but there is no evidence Y of preferential drug accumulation in the fetus.95 Long-term follow-up studies have not revealed any increase in or pattern of malformations after exposure during the first trimester.96 Y Corticosteroids may increase the Y risk of maternal infection in women with preterm premature rupture of the fetal membranes, though most large studies reveal Y no such increased risk.98 Y Can transiently cause an abnormal glucose tolerance test, 99 worsen existing diabetes mellitus, and are Y associated with pulmonary edema when given with a tocolytic agent Y in the setting of an underlying infection.100 Y Repeat doses of corticosteroids do not reduce the maternal perception of fetal movements.101 The evidence that corticosteroids are human teratogens is weak and confined to cleft lip.102,103,104,105 An increased risk of neonatal sepsis is suggested but not confirmed despite large prospective studies. Multiple courses of corticosteroids are not recommended.106 Adverse effects noted in animal and human studies include a profound suppression of fetal breathing, movement, impaired Secreted and achieves concentrations in breast milk higher than maternal serum.97 Considered compatible with breast-feeding. (continued) VOL. 113, NO. 2, PART 1, FEBRUARY 2009 Buhimschi and Weiner Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation 427 Table 3. Considerations for Drugs with Minimal or Unknown Teratogenic Effect (continued) Drug Maternal Considerations Corticosteroids Whole category (prednisone, betamethasone, dexamethasone) (continued) Breast-Feeding Considerations Fetal Considerations Y myelination, intrauterine growth restriction, and microcephaly.107,108 Y There is controversy as to the earliest gestational age at which corticosteroids can be administered to improve fetal outcome:109 – the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and the Office of Medical Applications of Research of the National Institutes of Health recommend a single course of corticosteroids to all pregnant women between 24 and 34 weeks of gestation who are at risk of preterm delivery within 7 days.110 Y Repeat corticosteroid courses, including so-called “rescue therapy,” should not be used routinely. Y Recently, it was demonstrated that repeat doses of corticosteroids are accompanied by a reduction in birth weight and an increase in the prevalence of small for gestational age infants.111 There are no adequate reports or well-controlled studies in breast-feeding women. Prednisone (Cortan, Dacortin) Y No adequate well-controlled Y Human placenta metabolizes Y Unknown whether enters studies during pregnancy. prednisone reducing fetal human breast milk. Y Several trials show that women exposure to less than 10% of Y Long clinical experience with antiphospholipid syndrome the maternal level.113 suggests this drug is treated with prednisone and compatible with breastaspirin have higher loss rates feeding. than women treated with heparin and aspirin.112 Betamethasone (Celestone) Y Crosses the human placenta Y Still unclear whether Y Routinely used for the and is proven to enhance maternal treatment with acceleration of fetal lung perinatal outcome after this drug increases the maturity; administration is preterm birth.116 concentration of cortisone standard of care for threatened Y Some studies suggest this in breast milk. preterm birth.114,115 drug can alter fetal breathing when administered for the enhancement of lung maturation.117 (continued) 428 Buhimschi and Weiner Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY Table 3. Considerations for Drugs with Minimal or Unknown Teratogenic Effect (continued) Breast-Feeding Considerations Drug Dexamethasone (Decadron) Maternal Considerations Fetal Considerations Y Routinely used for the Y Crosses the human placenta Y Still unclear whether acceleration of fetal lung and is proven to enhance maternal treatment with maturity; administration is perinatal outcome after this drug increases the standard of care for threatened preterm birth.116 concentration of cortisone Y Complete fetal heart block has preterm birth.114,115 in breast milk. Y Effective antiemetic after been treated successfully with general anesthesia for this drug:121 – after corticosteroid pregnancy termination.118 administration, the fetal heart rate pattern may become transiently nonreactive.122 Y Can prevent or diminish virilization due to congenital adrenal hyperplasia if administered early during the first trimester.123,124 Y Some reports show that the drug intravenously modifies the clinical course of the hemolytic anemia, elevated liver enzymes, and lowplatelet count syndrome during both the antenatal and postpartal periods119; however, a more recent study contradicts that conclusion.120 ACOG, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. nized drugs currently classified as safe for pregnant and breast-feeding women. As demonstrated, that classification is not always warranted or is applied before adequate evidence proves it so. As discussed in Part I, novel approaches in the field of theranostics are being developed to address this research shortfall. Meanwhile, physicians should look more critically at a drug’s classification and evidence of its teratogenicity before prescribing it. Clinicians should become familiar with all of the aspects of the drugs they prescribe, in addition to the controversies surrounding them, through consultation with maternal–fetal medicine specialists and through references and Web sites providing up-to-date information in an effort to promote safer prescribing practices. REFERENCES 1. Li DK, Liu L, Odouli R. Exposure to non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs during pregnancy and risk of miscarriage: population based cohort study. BMJ 2003;327:368. 2. Buhimschi CS, Weiner CP. Medications in pregnancy and lactation. In: Queenan JT, Spong CY, Lockwood CJ, editors. Management of high-risk pregnancy: an evidence-based approach. 5th ed. Malden (MA): Blackwell Publishing Ltd; 2007. p. 38–58. 3. Rainsford KD. Anti-inflammatory drugs in the 21st century. Subcell Biochem 2007;42:3–27. VOL. 113, NO. 2, PART 1, FEBRUARY 2009 4. Everson GW, Krenzelok EP. Chronic salicylism in a patient with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Clin Pharm 1986;5: 334–41. 5. Kozer E, Costei AM, Boskovic R, Nulman I, Nikfar S, Koren G. Effects of aspirin consumption during pregnancy on pregnancy outcomes: meta-analysis. Birth Defects Res B Dev Reprod Toxicol 2003;68:70–84. 6. James AH, Brancazio LR, Price T. Aspirin and reproductive outcomes. Obstet Gynecol Surv 2008;63:49–57. 7. Nadar S, Blann AD, Lip GY. Effects of aspirin on intraplatelet vascular endothelial growth factor, angiopoietin-1, and p-selectin levels in hypertensive patients. Am J Hypertens 2006;19:970–7. 8. Empson M, Lassere M, Craig JC, Scott JR. Recurrent pregnancy loss with antiphospholipid antibody: a systematic review of therapeutic trials. Obstet Gynecol 2002;99:135–44. 9. Di Nisio M, Peters L, Middeldorp S. Anticoagulants for the treatment of recurrent pregnancy loss in women without antiphospholipid syndrome. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2005, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD004734. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD004734. 10. Farquharson RG, Quenby S, Greaves M. Antiphospholipid syndrome in pregnancy: a randomized, controlled trial of treatment [published erratum appears in Obstet Gynecol 2002;100:1361]. Obstet Gynecol 2002;100:408–13. 11. Caritis S, Sibai B, Hauth J, Lindheimer MD, Klebanoff M, Thom E, et al. Low-dose aspirin to prevent preeclampsia in women at high risk. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Network of Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units. N Engl J Med 1998;338:701–5. Buhimschi and Weiner Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation 429 12. Vainio M, Kujansuu E, Iso-Mustajarvi M, Maenpaa J. Low dose acetylsalicylic acid in prevention of pregnancy-induced hypertension and intrauterine growth retardation in women with bilateral uterine artery notches. BJOG 2002;109:161–7. 13. Askie LM, Duley L, Henderson-Smart DJ, Stewart LA, PARIS Collaborative Group. Antiplatelet agents for prevention of pre-eclampsia: a meta-analysis of individual patient data. Lancet 2007;369:1791–8. 14. Martinez-Frias ML, Rodriguez-Pinilla E, Prieto L. Prenatal exposure to salicylates and gastroschisis: a case-control study. Teratology 1997;56:241–3. 15. Kozer E, Nikfar S, Costei A, Boskovic R, Nulman I, Koren G. Aspirin consumption during the first trimester of pregnancy and congenital anomalies: a meta-analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002;187:1623–30. 31. Pacifici GM. Placental transfer of antibiotics administered to the mother: a review. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther 2006;44: 57–63. 32. Elek E, Ivan E, Arr M. Passage of penicillins from mother to foetus in humans. Int J Clin Pharmacol 1972;6:223–8. 33. Dashe JS, Gilstrap LC 3rd. Antibiotic use in pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 1997;24:617–29. 34. Nau H. Clinical pharmacokinetics in pregnancy and perinatology. II. Penicillins. Dev Pharmacol Ther 1987;10:174–98. 35. Matheson I, Samseth M, Sande HA. Ampicillin in breast milk during puerperal infections. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 1988;34: 657–9. 36. Stauffer UG. Tooth changes caused by tetracycline in the fetus, infant and child [in German]. Schweiz Med Wochenschr 1967;97:291–3. 16. Bar-Oz B, Bulkowstein M, Benyamini L, Greenberg R, Soriano I, Zimmerman D, et al. Use of antibiotic and analgesic drugs during lactation. Drug Saf 2003;26:925–35. 37. ElTabbakh GH, Elejalde BR, Broekhuizen FF. Primary syphilis and nonimmune fetal hydrops in a penicillin-allergic woman. A case report. J Reprod Med 1994;39:412–4. 17. Bleyer WA, Breckenridge RT. Studies on the detection of adverse drug reactions in the newborn. II. The effects of prenatal aspirin on newborn hemostasis. JAMA 1970;213: 2049–53. 38. Smith JR, Taylor-Robinson D. Infection due to Chlamydia trachomatis in pregnancy and the newborn. Baillieres Clin Obstet Gynaecol 1993;7:237–55. 18. Spigset O, Hagg S. Analgesics and breast-feeding: safety considerations. Paediatr Drugs 2000;2:223–38. 19. Acetylcysteine (Acetadote) for acetaminophen overdosage. Med Lett Drugs Ther 2005;47:70–1. 20. Kirshon B, Moise KJ Jr, Wasserstrum N. Effect of acetaminophen on fetal acid-base balance in chorioamnionitis. J Reprod Med 1989;34:955–9. 21. Golden NL, King KC, Sokol RJ. Propoxyphene and acetaminophen. Possible effects on the fetus. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 1982;21:752–4. 22. Adjei AA, Gaedigk A, Simon SD, Weinshilboum RM, Leeder JS. Interindividual variability in acetaminophen sulfation by human fetal liver: implications for pharmacogenetic investigations of drug-induced birth defects. Birth Defects Res A Clin Mol Teratol 2008;82:155–65. 23. Collins E. Maternal and fetal effects of acetaminophen and salicylates in pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol 1981;58 suppl: 57S–62S. 24. Sunshine A, Olson NZ, O’Neill E, Ramos I, Doyle R. Analgesic efficacy of a hydrocodone with ibuprofen combination compared with ibuprofen alone for the treatment of acute postoperative pain. J Clin Pharmacol 1997;37:908–15. 25. Wiebe ER, Rawling M. Pain control in abortion. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 1995;50:41–6. 26. Thomas RL, Parker GC, Van Overmeire B, Aranda JV. A meta-analysis of ibuprofen versus indomethacin for closure of patent ductus arteriosus. Eur J Pediatr 2005;164:135–40. 27. Watson-Jones D, Gumodoka B, Weiss H, Changalucha J, Todd J, Mugeye K, et al. Syphilis in pregnancy in Tanzania. II. The effectiveness of antenatal syphilis screening and single-dose benzathine penicillin treatment for the prevention of adverse pregnancy outcomes. J Infect Dis 2002;186: 948–57. 28. Michelow IC, Wendel GD Jr, Norgard MV, Zeray F, Leos NK, Alsaadi R, et al. Central nervous system infection in congenital syphilis. N Engl J Med 2002;346:1792–8. 29. Ballard RC, Berman SM, Fenton KA. Azithromycin versus penicillin for early syphilis. N Engl J Med 2006;354:203–5. 30. Boyer KM, Gotoff SP. Prevention of early-onset neonatal group B streptococcal disease with selective intrapartum chemoprophylaxis. N Engl J Med 1986;314:1665–9. 430 Buhimschi and Weiner 39. Sexually transmitted diseases in adolescents. ACOG Committee Opinion No. 301. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Committee on Adolescent Health Care. Obstet Gynecol 2004;104:891–8. 40. McGregor JA, French JI. Bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol Surv 2000;55 suppl:S1–19. 41. Klastersky-Genot MT. Effects of tetracycline, administered during pregnancy, on the deciduous teeth. A double blind controlled study [in French]. Acta Stomatol Belg 1970;67: 107–24. 42. Czeizel AE, Rockenbauer M. Teratogenic study of doxycycline. Obstet Gynecol 1997;89:524–8. 43. Hendeles L, Trask PA. Tetracycline and lactation. J Am Dent Assoc 1983;107:12, 14. 44. Bothamley G. Drug treatment for tuberculosis during pregnancy: safety considerations. Drug Saf 2001;24:553–65. 45. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Updated recommendations for antimicrobial prophylaxis among asymptomatic pregnant women after exposure to Bacillus anthracis. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2001;50:960. 46. Ludlam H, Wreghitt TG, Thornton S, Thomson BJ, Bishop NJ, Coomber S, et al. Q fever in pregnancy. J Infect 1997; 34:75–8. 47. Polachek H, Holcberg G, Sapir G, Tsadkin-Tamir M, Polachek J, Katz M, et al. Transfer of ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin and levofloxacin across the perfused human placenta in vitro. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2005;122:61–5. 48. Casey B, Bawdon RE. Ex vivo human placental transfer of trovafloxacin. Infect Dis Obstet Gynecol 2000;8:228–9. 49. Peled Y, Friedman S, Hod M, Merlob P. Ofloxacin during the second trimester of pregnancy. DICP 1991;25:1181–2. 50. Giamarellou H, Kolokythas E, Petrikkos G, Gazis J, Aravantinos D, Sfikakis P. Pharmacokinetics of three newer quinolones in pregnant and lactating women. Am J Med 1989;87: 49S–51S. 51. Harmon T, Burkhart G, Applebaum H. Perforated pseudomembranous colitis in the breast-fed infant. J Pediatr Surg 1992;27:744–6. 52. Connell W, Miller A. Treating inflammatory bowel disease during pregnancy: risks and safety of drug therapy [published erratum appears in Drug Saf 1999;21:456]. Drug Saf 1999;21: 311–23. Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY 53. Gulmezoglu AM. Interventions for trichomoniasis in pregnancy. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2002, Issue 3. Art. No.: CD000220. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD000220. 72. Livingstone I, Craswell PW, Bevan EB, Smith MT, Eadie MJ. Propranolol in pregnancy three year prospective study. Clin Exp Hypertens B 1983;2:341–50. 54. Klebanoff MA, Hauth JC, MacPherson CA, Carey JC, Heine RP, Wapner RJ, et al. Time course of the regression of asymptomatic bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy with and without treatment. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2004;190:363–70. 73. Elhassan EM, Mirghani OA, Habour AB, Adam I. Methyldopa versus no drug treatment in the management of mild pre-eclampsia. East Afr Med J 2002;79:172–5. 55. Klebanoff MA, Hillier SL, Nugent RP, MacPherson CA, Hauth JC, Carey JC et al. Is bacterial vaginosis a stronger risk factor for preterm birth when it is diagnosed earlier in gestation? Am J Obstet Gynecol 2005;192:470–7. 56. Okun N, Gronau KA, Hannah ME. Antibiotics for bacterial vaginosis or Trichomonas vaginalis in pregnancy: a systematic review. Obstet Gynecol 2005;105:857–68. 57. Hauth JC, Goldenberg RL, Andrews WW, DuBard MB, Copper RL. Reduced incidence of preterm delivery with metronidazole and erythromycin in women with bacterial vaginosis. N Engl J Med 1995;333:1732–6. 58. Carey JC, Klebanoff MA, Hauth JC, Hillier SL, Thom EA, Ernest JM, et al. Metronidazole to prevent preterm delivery in pregnant women with asymptomatic bacterial vaginosis. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Network of Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units. N Engl J Med 2000;342:534–40. 59. Goldenberg RL, Klebanoff M, Carey JC, Macpherson C. Metronidazole treatment of women with a positive fetal fibronectin test result. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2001;185:485–6. 60. Klebanoff MA, Carey JC, Hauth JC, Hillier SL, Nugent RP, Thom EA, et al. Failure of metronidazole to prevent preterm delivery among pregnant women with asymptomatic Trichomonas vaginalis infection. N Engl J Med 2001;345:487–93. 61. Shennan A, Crawshaw S, Briley A, Hawken J, Seed P, Jones G, et al. A randomised controlled trial of metronidazole for the prevention of preterm birth in women positive for cervicovaginal fetal fibronectin: the PREMET Study. BJOG 2006; 113:65–74. 74. Gunenc O, Cicek N, Gorkemli H, Celik C, Acar A, Akyurek C. The effect of methyldopa treatment on uterine, umbilical and fetal middle cerebral artery blood flows in preeclamptic patients. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2002;266:141–4. 75. Houlihan DD, Dennedy MC, Ravikumar N, Morrison JJ. Anti-hypertensive therapy and the feto-placental circulation: effects on umbilical artery resistance. J Perinat Med 2004;32: 315–9. 76. Beardmore KS, Morris JM, Gallery ED. Excretion of antihypertensive medication into human breast milk: a systematic review. Hypertens Pregnancy 2002;21:85–95. 77. Munshi UK, Deorari AK, Paul VK, Singh M. Effects of maternal labetalol on the newborn infant. Indian Pediatr 1992;29:1507–12. 78. Scardo JA, Vermillion ST, Newman RB, Chauhan SP, Hogg BB. A randomized, double-blind, hemodynamic evaluation of nifedipine and labetalol in preeclamptic hypertensive emergencies. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1999;181:862–6. 79. Hennessy A, Thornton CE, Makris A, Ogle RF, HendersonSmart DJ, Gillin AG, et al. A randomised comparison of hydralazine and mini-bolus diazoxide for hypertensive emergencies in pregnancy: the PIVOT trial. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2007;47:279–85. 80. Vigil-De Gracia P, Ruiz E, López JC, de Jaramillo IA, Vega-Maleck JC, Pinzón J. Management of severe hypertension in the postpartum period with intravenous hydralazine or labetalol: a randomized clinical trial. Hypertens Pregnancy 2007;26:163–71. 62. Heisterberg L. Placental transfer of metronidazole in the first trimester of pregnancy. J Perinat Med 1984;12:43–5. 81. Duley L, Henderson-Smart DJ, Meher S. Drugs for treatment of very high blood pressure during pregnancy. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006, Issue 3. Art. No.: CD001449. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001449. 63. Passmore CM, McElnay JC, Rainey EA, D’Arcy PF. Metronidazole excretion in human milk and its effect on the suckling neonate. Br J Clin Pharmacol 1988;26:45–51. 82. Olsen KS, Beier-Holgersen R. Fetal death following labetalol administration in pre-eclampsia. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 1992;71:145–7. 64. Wendel PJ, Ramin SM, Barnett-Hamm C, Rowe TF, Cunningham FG. Asthma treatment in pregnancy: a randomized controlled study. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1996;175:150–4. 83. Crooks BN, Deshpande SA, Hall C, Platt MP, Milligan DW. Adverse neonatal effects of maternal labetalol treatment. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 1998;79:F150–1. 65. Pongrojpaw D, Somprasit C, Chanthasenanont A. A randomized comparison of ginger and dimenhydrinate in the treatment of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. J Med Assoc Thai 2007;90:1703–9. 84. Hjertberg R, Faxelius G, Belfrage P. Comparison of outcome of labetalol or hydralazine therapy during hypertension in pregnancy in very low birth weight infants. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 1993;72:611–5. 66. Aubé M. Migraine in pregnancy. Neurology 1999;53:S26–8. 85. Bowman ML, Bergmann M, Smith JF. Intrapartum labetalol for the treatment of maternal and fetal thyrotoxicosis. Thyroid 1998;8:795–6. 67. Hay TB, Wood C. The effect of dimenhydrinate on uterine contractions. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 1967;7:81–9. 68. Andrade SE, Raebel MA, Brown J, Lane K, Livingston J, Boudreau D, et al. Outpatient use of cardiovascular drugs during pregnancy. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2008;17: 240–7. 69. Chronic hypertension in pregnancy. ACOG Practice Bulletin. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Obstet Gynecol 2001;98 suppl: 177–85. 70. Borghi C, Esposti DD, Cassani A, Immordino V, Bovicelli L, Ambrosioni E. The treatment of hypertension in pregnancy. J Hypertens Suppl 2002;20:S52–6. 71. Kirsten R, Nelson K, Kirsten D, Heintz B. Clinical pharmacokinetics of vasodilators. Part II. Clin Pharmacokinet 1998; 35:9–36. VOL. 113, NO. 2, PART 1, FEBRUARY 2009 86. Caswell HT, Marks AD, Channick BJ. Propranolol for the preoperative preparation of patients with thyrotoxicosis. Surg Gynecol Obstet 1978;146:908–10. 87. Sukenik S, Biale Y, Ben-Aderet N, Khodadadi J, Levi D, Stern J. Successful control of pheochromocytoma in pregnancy. Case report. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 1979;9: 249–51. 88. Bott-Kanner G, Schweitzer A, Reisner SH, Joel-Cohen SJ, Rosenfeld JB. Propranolol and hydralazine in the management of essential hypertension in pregnancy. Br J Obstet Gynecol 1980;87:110–4. 89. Reichmuth D, Lockey RF. Present and potential therapy for allergic rhinitis: a review. BioDrugs 2000;14:371–87. Buhimschi and Weiner Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation 431 90. Chanda M, Mackenzie P, Day JH. Hypersensitivity reactions following laminaria placement. Contraception 2000;62: 105–6. 91. Stafford CT, Lobel SA, Fruge BC, Moffitt JE, Hoff RG, Fadel HE. Anaphylaxis to human serum albumin. Ann Allergy 1988;61:85–8. 92. Management of herpes in pregnancy. ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 82. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Obstet Gynecol 2007;109:1489–98. 93. Scott LL, Hollier LM, McIntire D, Sanchez PJ, Jackson GL, Wendel GD Jr. Acyclovir suppression to prevent recurrent genital herpes at delivery. Infect Dis Obstet Gynecol 2002; 10:71–7. 94. Little SE, Caughey AB. Acyclovir prophylaxis for pregnant women with a known history of herpes simplex virus: a cost-effectiveness analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2005;193: 1274–9. 95. Kimberlin DF, Weller S, Whitley RJ, Andrews WW, Hauth JC, Lakeman F, et al. Pharmacokinetics of oral valacyclovir and acyclovir in late pregnancy. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1998;179:846–51. 96. Laerum OD. Toxicology of acyclovir. Scand J Infect Dis Suppl 1985;47:40–3. 97. Sheffield JS, Fish DN, Hollier LM, Cadematori S, Nobles BJ, Wendel GD Jr. Acyclovir concentrations in human breast milk after valacyclovir administration. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002;186:100–2. 98. Egerman RS, Mercer BM, Doss JL, Sibai BM. A randomized, controlled trial of oral and intramuscular dexamethasone in the prevention of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1998;179:1120–3. 99. Gurbuz A, Karateke A, Ozturk G, Kabaca C. Is 1-hour glucose screening test reliable after a short-term administration of antenatal betamethasone? Am J Perinatol 2004;21: 415–20. 100. Elliott JP, O’Keeffe DF, Greenberg P, Freeman RK. Pulmonary edema associated with magnesium sulfate and betamethasone administration. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1979;134: 717–9. 101. Mushkat Y, Ascher-Landsberg J, Keidar R, Carmon E, Pauzner D, David MP. The effect of betamethasone versus dexamethasone on fetal biophysical parameters. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2001;97:50–2. 102. Lockshin MD, Sammaritano LR. Corticosteroids during pregnancy. Scand J Rheumatol Suppl 1998;107:136–8. 103. Walker BE. Induction of cleft palate in rats with antiinflammatory drugs. Teratology 1971;4:39–42. 104. Park-Wyllie L, Mazzotta P, Pastuszak A, Moretti ME, Beique L, Hunnisett L, et al. Birth defects after maternal exposure to corticosteroids: prospective cohort study and meta-analysis of epidemiological studies. Teratology 2000;62:385–92. 105. Carmichael SL, Shaw GM, Ma C, Werler MM, Rasmussen SA, Lammer EJ. National Birth Defects Prevention Study. Maternal corticosteroid use and orofacial clefts. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2007;197:585.e1–7. 106. Spinillo A, Viazzo F, Colleoni R, Chiara A, Maria Cerbo R, Fazzi E. Two-year infant neurodevelopmental outcome after single or multiple antenatal courses of corticosteroids to prevent complications of prematurity. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2004;191:217–24. 107. Huang WL, Harper CG, Evans SF, Newnham JP, Dunlop SA. Repeated prenatal corticosteroid administration delays myeli- 432 Buhimschi and Weiner nation of the corpus callosum in fetal sheep. Int J Dev Neurosci 2001;19:415–25. 108. Whitelaw A, Thoresen M. Antenatal steroids and the developing brain. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2000;83: F154–7. 109. Hayes EJ, Paul DA, Stahl GE, Seibel-Seamon J, Dysart K, Leiby BE, et al. Effect of antenatal corticosteroids on survival for neonates born at 23 weeks of gestation. Obstet Gynecol 2008;111:921–6. 110. Antenatal corticosteroid therapy for fetal maturation. ACOG Committee Opinion. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Committee on Obstetric Practice. Obstet Gynecol 2002;99:871–3. 111. Wapner RJ, Sorokin Y, Thom EA, Johnson F, Dudley DJ, Spong CY, et al. Single versus weekly courses of antenatal corticosteroids: evaluation of safety and efficacy. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2006;195:633–42. 112. Silver RK, MacGregor SN, Sholl JS, Hobart JM, Neerhof MG, Ragin A. Comparative trial of prednisone plus aspirin versus aspirin alone in the treatment of anticardiolipin antibody-positive obstetric patients. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1993; 169:1411–7. 113. Addison RS, Maguire DJ, Mortimer RH, Cannell GR. Metabolism of prednisolone by the isolated perfused human placental lobule. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 1991;39:83–90. 114. Lieman JM, Brumfield CG, Carlo W, Ramsey PS. Preterm premature rupture of membranes: is there an optimal gestational age for delivery? Obstet Gynecol 2005;105:12–7. 115. Walfisch A, Hallak M, Mazor M. Multiple courses of antenatal steroids: risks and benefits. Obstet Gynecol 2001;98:491–7. 116. Effect of corticosteroids for fetal maturation on perinatal outcomes. NIH Consens Statement 1994;12:1–24. 117. Mulder EJ, Derks JB, Visser GH. Antenatal corticosteroid therapy and fetal behaviour: a randomised study of the effects of betamethasone and dexamethasone. Br J Obstet Gynaecol 1997;104:1239–47. 118. Fujii Y, Uemura A. Dexamethasone for the prevention of nausea and vomiting after dilatation and curettage: a randomized controlled trial. Obstet Gynecol 2002;99:58–62. 119. Martin JN Jr, Thigpen BD, Rose CH, Cushman J, Moore A, May WL. Maternal benefit of high-dose intravenous corticosteroid therapy for HELLP syndrome. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2003;189:830–4. 120. Fonseca JE, Mendez F, Catano C, Arias F. Dexamethasone treatment does not improve the outcome of women with HELLP syndrome: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2005;193: 1591–8. 121. Costedoat-Chalumeau N, Georgin-Lavialle S, Amoura Z, Piette JC. Anti-SSA/Ro and anti-SSB/La antibody-mediated congenital heart block. Lupus 2005;14:660–4. 122. Rotmensch S, Lev S, Kovo M, Efrat Z, Zahavi Z, Lev N, et al. Effect of betamethasone administration on fetal heart rate tracing: a blinded longitudinal study. Fetal Diagn Ther 2005; 20:371–6. 123. Hughes I. Prenatal treatment of congenital adrenal hyperplasia: do we have enough evidence? Treat Endocrinol 2006;5:1–6. 124. Brook CG. Antenatal treatment of a mother bearing a fetus with congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2000;82:F176–81. Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY