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Fetal exposure to pimozide: a case report
Nina H Bjarnason1, Line Rode, Kim Dalhoff
1Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark. nina.bjarnason@rh.dk
The Journal of Reproductive Medicine
|June 20, 2006
Summary
This case study reports the first instance of fetal exposure to pimozide, an antipsychotic, during pregnancy. The infant showed no neurological abnormalities, suggesting potential safety, though further research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Pimozide is an antidopaminergic antipsychotic medication.
- Limited data exists on pimozide use during human pregnancy.
- Recommendations are often based on other antipsychotics.
Observation:
- A pregnant woman with Tourette syndrome and OCD was treated with pimozide (1 mg daily) and fluoxetine.
- Pimozide was withdrawn before an emergency cesarean section at 36 weeks.
- A healthy infant was delivered with no neurological abnormalities detected post-birth.
Findings:
- This is the first published report detailing fetal exposure to pimozide.
- The infant exhibited no neurological deficits or abnormalities.
- Both mother and infant were discharged in good health.
Implications:
- This case provides initial evidence on the potential safety of pimozide exposure in pregnancy.
- Further research is warranted to establish safety profiles for pimozide in pregnant populations.
- This report may inform clinical decisions regarding antipsychotic use in pregnancy.
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