Question

write an essay on drugs that should be avoided during pregnancy because of proven or strongly suspected teratogenicity. also include the teratogenic effect that each drug has on the developing fetus.

Answer 1

Ans.

Some medications if taken during pregnancy, such as thalidomide, are known to cause congenital abnormalities. Alcohol, smoking and other drugs can also lead to congenital abnormalities and should not be used during pregnancy.

medicines should you avoid during pregnancy--

• Bismuth subsalicylate (such as Pepto-Bismol).
• Phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine, which are decongestants. ...
• Cough and cold medicines that contain guaifenesin. ...
• Pain medicines like aspirin and ibuprofen (such as Advil and Motrin) and naproxen (such as Aleve).

Most teratogens are harmful only during a critical window of development (e.g., thalidomide is teratogenic only between days 28 and 50 of pregnancy).

drugs indicate a risk of teratogenicity in a pregnant woman--

Certain drugs such as alcohol, some illegal drugs, and some prescription and over-the-counter medications are known to cause birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Drugs that can cause birth defects are called 'teratogens.

most susceptible to teratogens?

The embryo is most susceptible to teratogenic agents during periods of rapid differentiation. The stage of development of the embryo determines suscep- tibility to teratogens. The most critical period in the development of an embryo or in the growth of a particular organ is during the time of most rapid cell division.

the teratogenic effect that each drug has on the developing fetus.--

Teratogenic agents cause approximately 7% of congenital malformations. A teratogenic agent is a chemical, infectious agent, physical condition, or deficiency that, on fetal exposure, can alter fetal morphology or subsequent function. Teratogenicity depends upon the ability of the agent to cross the placenta.

Teratogens. Teratogens are substances that may produce physical or functional defects in the human embryo or fetus after the pregnant woman is exposed to the substance. ... Additionally, teratogens may also affect pregnancies and cause complications such as preterm labors, spontaneous abortions, or miscarriages.

Teratogens are environmental factors that result in permanent structural or functional malformations or death of the embryo or fetus. Many congenital malformations are of unknown origin, but known teratogens include drugs, maternal illnesses and infections, metal toxicity, and physical agents (e.g., radiation).