Rheumatology drugs and pregnancy

Abstract

Medication exposure during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, is a common event that causes considerable concern among patients and healthcare professionals alike. Once the pregnancy is known, the response often consists in stopping or substantially diminishing the use of medications. Some medications are teratogenic and/or fetotoxic, requiring effective birth control and prior information of women of childbearing potential. Nevertheless, limiting the use of medications out of a sense of caution is warranted only if no major adverse impact on the mother is expected throughout the 9 months of the pregnancy. Treatment decisions during pregnancy should rest on a careful reappraisal of treatment practices and on an in-depth evaluation of the risk/benefit ratio of each medication. Here, we will discuss the main rheumatology drug classes whose use during pregnancy is most likely to cause concern.