Medication Risks During Pregnancy

Although data accumulated over the last 30 years suggest that some medications may be used safely during pregnancy, knowledge regarding the risks of prenatal exposure to psychotropic medications is incomplete. All medications diffuse readily across the placenta, and no psychotropic drug has yet been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use during pregnancy. When prescribing medications during pregnancy, one must consider risks such as teratogenesis and neonatal toxicity associated with prenatal exposure. Massachusetts General Hospital presents the general risks as well as those associated with specific medications.