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Medications that Cause Fetal Anomalies and Possible Prevention Strategies
Rebecca Nunge1, Nevena Krstić1, Jose Duncan1
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of South Florida, 2 Tampa General Cir, Tampa, FL 33606, USA.
Clinics in Perinatology
|August 5, 2026
Summary
Teratogenic exposures harm fetal development, causing birth defects and developmental issues. Understanding medication risks involves considering drug action, timing, dose, and maternal health for prevention.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Developmental Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Teratogenic exposures can cause congenital anomalies and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- Understanding teratogenicity involves complex interactions between drug properties and exposure timing.
- Untreated maternal conditions can exacerbate risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize fundamental principles of teratology.
- To review evidence on medication-induced teratogenicity.
- To discuss clinical strategies for risk reduction.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of teratology principles.
- Examination of evidence for specific teratogenic medications.
- Discussion of clinical prevention and risk management strategies.
Main Results:
- Teratogens impact fetal development via diverse mechanisms and timings.
- Medication teratogenicity depends on dose, exposure route, and timing.
- Balancing medication risks with untreated condition risks is crucial.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of teratogenic exposures requires understanding fundamental principles.
- Evidence-based review of medications aids in risk assessment.
- Clinical practice should focus on prevention and risk reduction strategies.
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