Medication Use in Pregnancy and Risk Evaluation: Do Not Categorize Me

Abstract

Medication use in pregnancy is a common problem and question. Nearly half of pregnant women (30% -90%) use at least one prescription medication during pregnancy. In addition to prescription drugs, pregnant women use over the counter drugs for which are limited data in pregnancy. Pregnant patients exposed to drugs should be informed about potential effects of medications. The United States- Food and Drug Administration’s (US- FDA) pregnancy categories (A, B, C, D, and X), which provide short and practical data, have recently been removed and replaced with an evidence-based approach. An overall classification for pregnancy is not sufficient when used alone. A research-based risk evaluation of potential adverse health effects resulting from drug use in pregnancy has three important parts: risk assessment, risk communication and risk management. An accurate risk evaluation about drug safety in pregnancy and informing women exposed to drugs may help reduce maternal concerns and prevent unnecessary pregnancy terminations.