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Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
Published on: August 25, 2014
Effects of drugs on the fetus
E Jacqz-Aigrain1, Gideon Koren
1Department of Pediatric Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, Hopital Robert Debré and Faculté de medicine Bichat/Robert Debré, 48 Boulevard Serurier University Paris VII, 75019 Paris, France. evelyne.jacqz-aigrain@rdb.ap-hop-paris.fr
Abstract:
Most drugs are not labelled for use in pregnancy. Consequently, large numbers of women expose their fetus to potential risks, either because they do not know that they are pregnant or because they require treatment for gestational pathologies. The present review focuses on drug classes for which the risk:benefit ratio during pregnancy has been discussed recently based on human data. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors have gained wide acceptance in the treatment of depression and data on their risk for neonatal adaptation after late exposure are reviewed. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptors antagonists interact with the renin-angiotensin system, although with different mechanisms, and might cause severe fetal tubular dysgenesis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and antiviral drugs and recreational drugs are also presented.
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