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Zafeiri A, Raja EA, Mitchell RT, Hay DC, Bhattacharya S, Fowler PA. Maternal over-the-counter analgesics use during pregnancy and adverse perinatal outcomes: cohort study of 151 141 singleton pregnancies. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e048092. [PMID: 35504638 PMCID: PMC9066494 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-048092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify any associations between in utero exposure to five over-the-counter (non-prescription) analgesics (paracetamol, ibuprofen, aspirin, diclofenac, naproxen) and adverse neonatal outcomes. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study using the Aberdeen Maternity and Neonatal Databank. PARTICIPANTS 151 141 singleton pregnancies between 1985 and 2015. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Premature delivery (<37 weeks), stillbirth, neonatal death, birth weight, standardised birthweight score, neonatal unit admission, APGAR score at 1 and 5 min, neural tube and amniotic band defects, gastroschisis and, in males, cryptorchidism and hypospadias. RESULTS 83.7% of women taking over-the-counter analgesics reported first trimester use when specifically asked about use at their first antenatal clinic visit. Pregnancies exposed to at least one of the five analgesics were significantly independently associated with increased risks for premature delivery <37 weeks (adjusted OR (aOR)=1.50, 95% CI 1.43 to 1.58), stillbirth (aOR=1.33, 95% CI 1.15 to 1.54), neonatal death (aOR=1.56, 95% CI 1.27 to 1.93), birth weight <2500 g (aOR=1.28, 95% CI 1.20 to 1.37), birth weight >4000 g (aOR=1.09, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.13), admission to neonatal unit (aOR=1.57, 95% CI 1.51 to 1.64), APGAR score <7 at 1 min (aOR=1.18, 95% CI 1.13 to 1.23) and 5 min (aOR=1.48, 95% CI 1.35 to 1.62), neural tube defects (aOR=1.64, 95% CI 1.08 to 2.47) and hypospadias (aOR=1.27, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.54 males only). The overall prevalence of over-the-counter analgesics use during pregnancy was 29.1%, however it rapidly increased over the 30-year study period, to include over 60% of women in the last 7 years of the study. This makes our findings highly relevant to the wider pregnant population. CONCLUSIONS Over-the-counter (non-prescription) analgesics consumption during pregnancy was associated with a substantially higher risk for adverse perinatal health outcomes in the offspring. The use of paracetamol in combination with other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs conferred the highest risk. The increased risks of adverse neonatal outcomes associated with non-prescribed, over-the-counter, analgesics use during pregnancy indicate that healthcare guidance for pregnant women regarding analgesic use need urgent updating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini Zafeiri
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Edwin Amalraj Raja
- Medical Statistics Team, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Rod Thomas Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - David C Hay
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Sohinee Bhattacharya
- Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Paul A Fowler
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
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Sprague J, Wisner KL, Bogen DL. Pharmacotherapy for depression and bipolar disorder during lactation: A framework to aid decision making. Semin Perinatol 2020; 44:151224. [PMID: 32199600 PMCID: PMC7214126 DOI: 10.1016/j.semperi.2020.151224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Breastmilk is recommended as the exclusive source of nutrition for infants younger than 6 months due to the numerous health benefits for both infants and mothers. Although many women are prescribed medications during pregnancy and postpartum, limited data are available to assist women in weighing the benefits compared to the risks of peripartum medication use. The goals of this paper are to discuss the importance of breastmilk for the health of both the mother and infant, evaluate the impact of medication use on women's infant feeding choice, describe the transfer of drugs to breastmilk and infants, and provide a framework for clinicians to support evidence-based counseling for women treated for mood disorders. RECOMMENDATIONS We recommend early pregnancy counseling to discuss the benefits and risks of medications during breastfeeding. The Surgeon General's Call to Action (2011) highlights the short and long-term negative health effects of not providing breastmilk. Integrating recommendations from the pediatric and obstetric teams allows patients to make decisions based on evidence and reach their infant feeding goals. Databases containing summaries of research findings and pharmacologic properties of the drug of interest are an essential resource for clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Sprague
- Perinatal and Women's Mental Health Fellow, Instructor, Department of Psychiatry, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 676N St. Clair St. Suite 1000, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Katherine L Wisner
- Norman and Helen Asher Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Director, Asher Center for the Study and Treatment of Depressive Disorders, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 676 North Saint Clair St. Suite 1000, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Debra L Bogen
- Professor of Pediatrics, Psychiatry and Clinical and Translational Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Vice Chair of Education, Department of Pediatrics, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Co-director of Quality and Safety, Children's Community Pediatrics, 3414 Fifth Ave, CHOB 320, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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Lee ML, Tran DT, Welsh A, Kennedy D, Havard A. Health-care providers' concern regarding smoking cessation pharmacotherapies during pregnancy: Calls to a teratology information service. Drug Alcohol Rev 2020; 39:223-231. [PMID: 31984591 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIMS Few smokers use smoking cessation pharmacotherapies during pregnancy. It is hypothesised that health-care providers' reluctance due to safety concerns contributes to their low use. This study examined the extent of providers' concern regarding smoking cessation pharmacotherapies, relative to other medications in the same and other pregnancy risk categories. Calls made to a teratology information service (MotherSafe, Australia) were taken as a proxy indicator of concern regarding safety during pregnancy. DESIGN AND METHODS The primary exposure discussed in 66 687 calls made to MotherSafe between 2001 and 2016 was categorised as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), bupropion, varenicline or category A (low risk), B1, B2, B3, C, D or X (teratogenic). Separate logistic regression models estimated the odds that calls regarding pharmacotherapies were from providers, relative to medications in the same and other risk categories. Models adjusted for caller remoteness and socio-economic status. RESULTS Calls regarding bupropion were more likely to be made by providers than calls regarding other medications in its corresponding risk category [B2, adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.17, 6.59]. Calls about varenicline were also more likely to be from providers than calls regarding other category B3 medications (aOR 95% CI 2.33:1.30, 4.17). Calls regarding NRT were not more or less likely to be from providers than calls regarding other category D medications. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Providers were more concerned about bupropion and varenicline than other medications within the same pregnancy risk categories. As this overestimation of risk may limit cessation pharmacotherapy use during pregnancy, research investigating strategies for correcting this imbalance is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Lin Lee
- Centre for Big Data Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Duong T Tran
- Centre for Big Data Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Alec Welsh
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Royal Hospital for Women, Sydney, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Debra Kennedy
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,MotherSafe, Royal Hospital for Women, Sydney, Australia
| | - Alys Havard
- Centre for Big Data Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Schüler-Faccini L, Sanseverino MTV, Abeche AM, Vianna FSL, Fraga LR, Rocha AG, Silva AAD, Souza PRAD, Hilgert AH, Barbosa CP, Kauppinem CG, Martins DF, Santos DS, Colpes GH, Ecco G, Silva HMFSD, Penteado LP, Santos TD. From abortion-inducing medications to Zika Virus Syndrome: 27 years experience of the First Teratogen Information Service in Latin America. Genet Mol Biol 2019; 42:297-304. [PMID: 30985857 PMCID: PMC6687353 DOI: 10.1590/1678-4685-gmb-2018-0111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In 1990, the first Teratogen Information Service in Brazil (SIAT) was implemented in the Medical Genetics Service at Hospital de Clinicas de Porto Alegre. SIAT is a free-to-use information service both to health professionals and the general population, especially to women who are pregnant or planning pregnancy. The main objective of this paper is to present the activities of SIAT in its initial years (1990-2006), compared to those in the last decade (2007-2017). In addition we review the scientific contribution of SIAT in the field of human teratogenesis. Since 1990, SIAT received 10,533 calls. Use of medications were the main reason for concern, accounting for 74% of all questions, followed by other chemical exposures (occupational, cosmetics, environmental), and maternal infectious diseases. Among its main contributions to scientific knowledge was the collaboration for the identification of two new human teratogens: misoprostol in the 1990s and Zika virus in 2015/16. In conclusion, SIAT is still evolving, as is the Medical Genetics Service that hosts it. Through its 27 years of existence more than 300 undergraduate and graduate students have rotated at SIAT. Presently, SIAT is expanding the research to experimental teratogenesis and to investigation of molecular mechanisms of teratogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lavinia Schüler-Faccini
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Maria Teresa Vieira Sanseverino
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Alberto Mantovani Abeche
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Sales Luiz Vianna
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Lucas Rosa Fraga
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Anastacia Guimaraes Rocha
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - André Anjos da Silva
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Paulo Ricardo Assis de Souza
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Artur Hartmann Hilgert
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Camila Pocharski Barbosa
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Caroline Grasso Kauppinem
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Daniela Fernandes Martins
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Daniela Silva Santos
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Henrique Colpes
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Ecco
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Helena Margot Flores Soares da Silva
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Louise Piva Penteado
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Tatiane Dos Santos
- Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos (SIAT), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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Bogen DL, Whalen BL. Breastmilk feeding for mothers and infants with opioid exposure: What is best? Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2019; 24:95-104. [PMID: 30922811 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2019.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
With rare exception, breastfeeding is the optimal way to feed infants, and has special benefits for women and infants with perinatal opioid exposure. Infants breastfed and/or fed their mother's own breastmilk experience less severe opioid withdrawal symptoms, have shorter hospital stays, and are less likely to be treated with medication for withdrawal. The specific impact of mothers' milk feeding on opioid withdrawal may be related to the act of breastfeeding and associated skin-to-skin contact, qualities of breastmilk, healthier microbiome, small amounts of opioid drug in breastmilk, or a combination of these. Women with opioid use disorder face significant breastfeeding obstacles, including psychosocial, behavioral, concomitant medications, and tobacco use and thus may require high levels of support to achieve their breastfeeding goals. They often don't receive information to make informed infant feeding decisions. Hospital practices such as prenatal education, rooming-in and having a policy that minimizes barriers to breastfeeding are associated with increased breastfeeding rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra L Bogen
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, 3414 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
| | - Bonny L Whalen
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Children's Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, DHMC Pediatrics, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH, 03756, USA.
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Stephens A, Brodribb W, McGuire T, Deckx L. Breastfeeding questions to medicines call centres from the Australian public and health professionals. Aust J Prim Health 2018; 24:409-416. [PMID: 30086825 DOI: 10.1071/py18010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
There is considerable uncertainty regarding medication use during breastfeeding. This study compared lactation-related questions about medicines from consumers and health professionals to identify knowledge gaps. A retrospective, mixed-methods study of lactation-related call data extracted from two Australian medicines call centre databases: National Prescribing Service (NPS) Medicines Line (ML) for the general public and Therapeutic Advice and Information Service (TAIS) for health professionals, was conducted. Of the 5662 lactation-related calls by consumers to ML, most were from women enquiring about themselves (95%). The 2219 lactation-related calls from health professionals to TAIS were largely from GPs (46%), community pharmacists (35%) and nurses (12%). Consumers commonly enquired about medicines freely accessible or over-the-counter, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory products (9.3%), paracetamol (6.9%), ibuprofen (4.8%) and codeine (4.2%). Health professionals' questions involved prescription medicines such as antidepressants (16.9%), with queries on sertraline (3.7%), levonorgestrel (2.7%) and domperidone (2.4%) most common. Question themes were similar for both cohorts, focusing mainly around medication safety, risk minimisation and milk supply. Understanding the compelling and common themes driving medicines help-seeking related to breastfeeding is key to addressing information gaps and improving overall medication use during breastfeeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia Stephens
- Primary Care Clinical Unit, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Health Sciences Building 16/910, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Qld 4029, Australia
| | - Wendy Brodribb
- Primary Care Clinical Unit, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Health Sciences Building 16/910, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Qld 4029, Australia
| | - Treasure McGuire
- Mater Pharmacy Services, Mater Health Services, Brisbane, Qld 4101, Australia
| | - Laura Deckx
- Primary Care Clinical Unit, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Health Sciences Building 16/910, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Qld 4029, Australia
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Jahnsen JA, Widnes SF, Schjøtt J. Analysis of questions about use of drugs in breastfeeding to Norwegian drug information centres. Int Breastfeed J 2018; 13:1. [PMID: 29339968 PMCID: PMC5759832 DOI: 10.1186/s13006-017-0143-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Health professionals may advise women to either stop breastfeeding or drug treatment due to restrictive advice in drug monographs. Regional medicines information and pharmacovigilance centres in Norway (RELIS) provide free and industry-independent answers to questions about drugs and breastfeeding documented in a full-text, searchable database (RELIS database). We used the RELIS database to describe which health care practitioners sought information about medication safety in lactation, most common drugs involved, advice provided and which resources were used to provide the advice. Methods A random selection of 100 question-answer pairs (QAPs) from the RELIS database indexed with “BREASTFEEDING” in the period from January 2011 to December 2015 was analysed. Inclusion criteria were queries from health professionals about drugs. Questions about herbal supplements and other exposures not classified as drugs were excluded. The QAPs were manually analysed for compatibility of one or several drugs with breastfeeding, health care profession and workplace of enquirer in addition to advice and search strategy used. Results In the 100 QAPs there were enquires about 152 drugs. Seventy-four questions concerned a single drug, but the number of drugs evaluated varied between 1 and 16. Fifty-nine questions were from physicians, 34 from nurses or midwives, two from pharmacists and two from other health professionals. Questions from physicians contained 93 drug evaluations (61%), nurses or midwives 47 (31%) and pharmacists seven (5%). The most frequent categories of drugs were antidepressants, antiepileptics and immunosuppressants. The most asked about drugs were lamotrigine, codeine, quetiapine and escitalopram. Fifty-nine percent of the drugs were deemed safe while breastfeeding, 16% if precautions were taken and 12% not recommended. Thirty-nine percent of the drug evaluations used an advanced literature search strategy, and this was significantly (p < 0.05) more likely when the enquirer was a physician. Conclusions This analysis of questions to Norwegian medicines information centres about medicine use in breastfeeding indicates the need for communication about safety of drugs affecting the nervous system, primarily to medical doctors and midwives. In the majority of cases the medicine information centre can reassure about the safety of breastfeeding while taking a drug. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13006-017-0143-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Anker Jahnsen
- Regional Medicines Information and Pharmacovigilance Centre (RELIS Vest), Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Sofia Frost Widnes
- Regional Medicines Information and Pharmacovigilance Centre (RELIS Vest), Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jan Schjøtt
- Regional Medicines Information and Pharmacovigilance Centre (RELIS Vest), Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway.,Section of Clinical Pharmacology, Laboratory of Clinical Biochemistry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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McClatchey AK, Shield A, Cheong LH, Ferguson SL, Cooper GM, Kyle GJ. Why does the need for medication become a barrier to breastfeeding? A narrative review. Women Birth 2017; 31:362-366. [PMID: 29258800 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2017.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Revised: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PROBLEM The need for medication during lactation can contribute to the early cessation of breastfeeding. BACKGROUND Breastfeeding women may require medication for acute or chronic health conditions. For some women this need for medication can become a barrier to breastfeeding; this is despite the fact that the majority of medications are considered to be compatible with lactation. AIM This narrative review aims to investigate factors relating to medicines safety that could contribute to medication unnecessarily becoming a barrier to breastfeeding. METHODS A selective literature search using PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar was conducted over a 6-month period using the search terms "breastfeeding", "lactation", "medication" and "information". Articles were assessed to identify whether they addressed the impact of medication use on the decision to breastfeed. FINDINGS Fifty six articles were identified as having appropriate discussion about decision making for the safe use of medication during lactation. Themes identified included variable and conflicting safety advice for medicines; difficulty interpreting risks associated with medicine use; societal pressures faced by the breastfeeding woman; and the varied knowledge and training of health professionals involved in the care of breastfeeding women. CONCLUSION Poor quality of information about medicine safety during lactation can contribute to confusion in giving recommendations. This confusion can result in early cessation of breastfeeding or insufficient health care for the breastfeeding woman.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyson K McClatchey
- Discipline of Pharmacy, University of Canberra, University Drive, Bruce, ACT, 2617, Australia.
| | - Alison Shield
- Discipline of Pharmacy, University of Canberra, University Drive, Bruce, ACT, 2617, Australia
| | - Lynn H Cheong
- Discipline of Pharmacy, University of Canberra, University Drive, Bruce, ACT, 2617, Australia
| | - Sally L Ferguson
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, University Drive, Bruce, ACT, 2617, Australia
| | - Gabrielle M Cooper
- Discipline of Pharmacy, University of Canberra, University Drive, Bruce, ACT, 2617, Australia
| | - Gregory J Kyle
- Discipline of Pharmacy, Queensland University of Technology, 2 George St, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
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Campbell SC, Kast TT, Kamyar M, Robertson J, Sherwin CM. Calls to a teratogen information service regarding potential exposures in pregnancy and breastfeeding. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol 2016; 17:33. [PMID: 27449139 PMCID: PMC4958285 DOI: 10.1186/s40360-016-0076-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background MotherToBaby Utah is a teratogen information service that provides support for pregnant and breastfeeding women and healthcare providers regarding risks of exposures to medications, infections, herbals, homeopathic and dietary medications, chemicals and other substances. Calls are anonymous and free of charge. This study was undertaken to examine the volume and classification of calls regarding exposures during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Methods Data were extracted from calls requesting information about medication use and other exposures to pregnant and breastfeeding women, between January 1 2009 and December 31 2012. Descriptive statistics were calculated. Results A total of 27,299 calls regarding 46,031 exposures were identified in this study population. The majority of calls were made by the exposed individual (82.1 %); 13.0 % were made by a healthcare provider and 4.9 % were made by a family member or acquaintance. The majority of calls concerned pregnancy (65.8 %) versus breastfeeding (34.2 %). Exposure during the current pregnancy was the subject of 88.6 % of calls. For calls where trimester information was available, the percentage of calls for first, second and third trimesters were 44.1, 32.5 and 23.4 %, respectively. Conclusion This study found analgesics, cold medications, herbals, homeopathic, and dietary medications were of the topic of concern for the majority of the calls regarding exposure during pregnancy and/or breastfeeding. Teratogen information services gather and provide important educational resources for both patients and healthcare providers. As the majority of calls concern nonprescription drugs and vaccines, these data provide insight into a lack of education on these subjects that should be addressed during prenatal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah C Campbell
- Nelson Laboratories, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Tyler T Kast
- College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Manijeh Kamyar
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Julia Robertson
- Utah Department of Health, Pregnancy Risk Line, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - Catherine M Sherwin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA. .,Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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Bakkebø T, Widnes SF, Aamlid SS, Schjøtt J. Physicians’ Perception of Teratogenic Risk and Confidence in Prescribing Drugs in Pregnancy—Influence of Norwegian Drug Information Centers. Clin Ther 2016; 38:1102-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2016.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Revised: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Patil AS, Patil NP, Lewis AN, Swamy GK, Murtha AP. Health care providers' use of a drug information service for pregnancy-related inquiries. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2015; 54:502-9, 2 p following 509. [PMID: 25216880 DOI: 10.1331/japha.2014.13093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To characterize pregnancy and lactation-related medication inquiries to a drug information center to identify classes of medications of most concern to providers. A secondary objective was to identify any trends in provider inquiries over the study period. DESIGN A retrospective descriptive study of pregnancy and lactation-related inquiries to the University of North Carolina Health Care System Drug Information Center database between January 2001 and December 2010. SETTING University of North Carolina Health Care System Drug Information Center. INTERVENTION Provider inquiries and responses were extracted and characterized by indication for treatment and reason for inquiry. Comparison of the first and second 5-year periods was performed to delineate trends. Descriptive statistics, Fisher's Exact and χ2 tests were used for analysis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Inquiry origin, time, and subject. RESULTS 433 inquiries were retrieved over the study period from physicians (50%), pharmacists (21%), and nurses (18%). Inquiries were most often made during the antepartum period (34%), followed by the postpartum (28%) and preconception (22%) periods. The most frequent indications for inquiry were psychiatry (15%) and infectious diseases (14%), which remained constant throughout the study period. Safety was the most common reason for inquiry (52%). The responses provided to callers were limited due to lack of information availability 37% of the time. CONCLUSION Psychiatry and infectious disease-related indications are the most frequent subjects of provider inquiry regarding medication use in pregnancy. Rates of inquiry remained constant throughout the past decade in most therapeutic areas. These findings are consistent with previous observations in other developed countries and suggest high-yield areas for pharmacist education.
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Kennedy D, Eamus M, Hill M, Oei JL. Review of calls to an Australian teratogen information service regarding psychotropic medications over a 12-year period. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2013; 53:544-52. [DOI: 10.1111/ajo.12129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2012] [Accepted: 07/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Debra Kennedy
- Mothersafe; The Royal Hospital for Women; Randwick New South Wales Australia
- School of Women's and Children's Health; The University of New South Wales; Kensington New South Wales Australia
| | - Maya Eamus
- Royal Darwin Hospital; Darwin Northern Territory Australia
| | - Majella Hill
- Mothersafe; The Royal Hospital for Women; Randwick New South Wales Australia
| | - Ju Lee Oei
- School of Women's and Children's Health; The University of New South Wales; Kensington New South Wales Australia
- Department of Newborn Care; The Royal Hospital for Women; Randwick New South Wales Australia
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Grafmüller S, Manser P, Krug HF, Wick P, von Mandach U. Determination of the transport rate of xenobiotics and nanomaterials across the placenta using the ex vivo human placental perfusion model. J Vis Exp 2013. [PMID: 23851364 DOI: 10.3791/50401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Decades ago the human placenta was thought to be an impenetrable barrier between mother and unborn child. However, the discovery of thalidomide-induced birth defects and many later studies afterwards proved the opposite. Today several harmful xenobiotics like nicotine, heroin, methadone or drugs as well as environmental pollutants were described to overcome this barrier. With the growing use of nanotechnology, the placenta is likely to come into contact with novel nanoparticles either accidentally through exposure or intentionally in the case of potential nanomedical applications. Data from animal experiments cannot be extrapolated to humans because the placenta is the most species-specific mammalian organ (1). Therefore, the ex vivo dual recirculating human placental perfusion, developed by Panigel et al. in 1967 (2) and continuously modified by Schneider et al. in 1972 (3), can serve as an excellent model to study the transfer of xenobiotics or particles. Here, we focus on the ex vivo dual recirculating human placental perfusion protocol and its further development to acquire reproducible results. The placentae were obtained after informed consent of the mothers from uncomplicated term pregnancies undergoing caesarean delivery. The fetal and maternal vessels of an intact cotyledon were cannulated and perfused at least for five hours. As a model particle fluorescently labelled polystyrene particles with sizes of 80 and 500 nm in diameter were added to the maternal circuit. The 80 nm particles were able to cross the placental barrier and provide a perfect example for a substance which is transferred across the placenta to the fetus while the 500 nm particles were retained in the placental tissue or maternal circuit. The ex vivo human placental perfusion model is one of few models providing reliable information about the transport behavior of xenobiotics at an important tissue barrier which delivers predictive and clinical relevant data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Grafmüller
- Department of Obstetrics, Perinatal Pharmacology, University Hospital Zurich
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Levkovitz R, Zaretsky U, Gordon Z, Jaffa AJ, Elad D. In vitro simulation of placental transport: part I. Biological model of the placental barrier. Placenta 2013; 34:699-707. [PMID: 23764139 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2013.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2013] [Revised: 03/09/2013] [Accepted: 03/30/2013] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The placental barrier (PB) is the thin biological membrane made of endothelial cells (EC), trophoblast cells (TC) and basal membrane that separates between maternal and fetal blood circulations within the placenta and facilitates feto-maternal transport characteristics, which are not completely understood. METHODS An in vitro biological model of the PB model was co-cultured of human TC (HTR8) and human umbilical vein EC (HUVEC) on both sides of a denuded amniotic membrane (AM) using custom designed wells. RESULTS Confocal and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging confirmed the morphology expressions of human EC and TC. Further support on the integrity of the new PB model was obtained from the existence of tight junctions and permeability experiments with fluorescence markers of small and large molecules. The monolayer of EC demonstrated the limiting layer for the transport resistance across this complex barrier. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION This new in vitro viable model mimics the architecture of the human PB and can be used in in vitro simulations of transplacental transport studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Levkovitz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
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Amir LH, Ryan KM, Jordan SE. Avoiding risk at what cost? Putting use of medicines for breastfeeding women into perspective. Int Breastfeed J 2012; 7:14. [PMID: 23072595 PMCID: PMC3502159 DOI: 10.1186/1746-4358-7-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2012] [Accepted: 10/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Breastfeeding women often need to take medicines, and therefore health professionals need to consider the effects of medication on lactation and the breastfed infant, and any associated risks. This commentary discusses the tragic case of a young woman with a history of mental illness who committed suicide in the postpartum period. She was determined to be a 'good mother' and breastfeed, and to avoid any potential adverse effects of medication on her breastfed infant. The final outcome was fatal for both mother and child. We argue that if women require medication during lactation, all risks need to be considered - the risk of not treating the maternal medical condition may greatly outweigh the potential risk to the breastfed infant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa H Amir
- Mother & Child Health Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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Abstract
UNLABELLED Perinatal depression is an increasingly common comorbidity of pregnancy and is associated with adverse birth outcomes. Newer classes of antidepressants have been developed with a variety of mechanisms and improved side effect profiles. There is increasing use of these medications in reproductive-aged women. Medical providers have to balance the need to prevent relapse of maternal depressive symptoms with the need to minimize fetal exposure to medications. We review the literature on 10 of the most commonly used antidepressant medications: citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, sertraline, venlafaxine, duloxetine, bupropion, and mirtazapine. The pharmacokinetic properties of the medications are detailed, as well as practical considerations for their use in pregnant and lactating women. Guidance on counseling and management of pregnancies complicated by perinatal depression is discussed. TARGET AUDIENCE Obstetricians & Gynecologists and Family Physicians. LEARNING OBJECTIVES After completing this CME activity, physicians should be better able to differentiate the current classes of medications utilized commonly for perinatal depression, evaluate the reported adverse effects of antidepressant medications on the patient and developing fetus and choose the appropriate antidepressant medications for a depressed patient who is breast-feeding.
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Bogen DL, Perel JM, Helsel JC, Hanusa BH, Thompson M, Wisner KL. Estimated infant exposure to enantiomer-specific methadone levels in breastmilk. Breastfeed Med 2011; 6:377-84. [PMID: 21348770 PMCID: PMC3228593 DOI: 10.1089/bfm.2010.0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Breastfeeding, a public health priority, improves outcomes for infants. Methadone is dispensed as a racemic mixture; R-methadone is the active enantiomer. Pharmacologic data for R-methadone in breastmilk could improve risk-benefit decision-making for treatment of lactating women. This study estimated infant exposure to R- and S-methadone via breastmilk by theoretic infant dose (TID) and relative infant dose (RID) and reported the milk-to-maternal plasma (M/P) ratio. METHODS Women treated with methadone doses of 40-200 mg/day (mean, 102 mg/day) provided concomitantly collected plasma and breastmilk samples 1-6 days after delivery. Most (16 of 20) samples were taken at the time of peak maternal plasma levels; thus infant exposure estimates are for maximum possible exposure. Concentrations of R- and S-methadone were measured in maternal plasma and breastmilk; M/P ratio, TID, and RID were calculated for each enantiomer and total methadone. RESULTS The 20 participants were 18-38 years old and publicly insured; a quarter did not complete high school, and only one was not white. R-Methadone concentration was 1.3-3.0 times that of S-methadone in all breastmilk samples. The mean (SD) R-, S-, and total methadone M/P ratios were 0.52 (0.28), 0.28 (0.15), and 0.40 (0.21), respectively. Mean (range) R-, S-, and total methadone TID were 0.02 mg/kg/day (0.004-0.099), 0.013 mg/kg/day (0.002-0.071), and 0.033 mg/kg/day (0.006-0.170), respectively. Mean (range) RID of R-, S-, and total methadone were 2.7% (0.7-10.1%), 1.6% (0.3-7.2%), and 2.1% (0.52-8.8%), respectively. CONCLUSIONS R-Methadone is found in higher concentrations than S-methadone in breastmilk. Even at high methadone doses, breastmilk methadone concentrations were relatively low and support American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations that dose should not be a factor in determining whether women on methadone breastfeed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra L Bogen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Division of General Academic Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, 3414 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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The human placental perfusion model: a systematic review and development of a model to predict in vivo transfer of therapeutic drugs. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2011; 90:67-76. [PMID: 21562489 DOI: 10.1038/clpt.2011.66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Dual perfusion of a single placental lobule is the only experimental model to study human placental transfer of substances in organized placental tissue. To date, there has not been any attempt at a systematic evaluation of this model. The aim of this study was to systematically evaluate the perfusion model in predicting placental drug transfer and to develop a pharmacokinetic model to account for nonplacental pharmacokinetic parameters in the perfusion results. In general, the fetal-to-maternal drug concentration ratios matched well between placental perfusion experiments and in vivo samples taken at the time of delivery of the infant. After modeling for differences in maternal and fetal/neonatal protein binding and blood pH, the perfusion results were able to accurately predict in vivo transfer at steady state (R² = 0.85, P < 0.0001). Placental perfusion experiments can be used to predict placental drug transfer when adjusting for extra parameters and can be useful for assessing drug therapy risks and benefits in pregnancy.
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Bogen DL, Hanusa BH, Moses-Kolko E, Wisner KL. Are maternal depression or symptom severity associated with breastfeeding intention or outcomes? J Clin Psychiatry 2010; 71:1069-78. [PMID: 20584521 PMCID: PMC4426491 DOI: 10.4088/jcp.09m05383blu] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2009] [Accepted: 10/29/2009] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Breastfeeding confers many health benefits to mothers and infants, while depression negatively affects mothers and infants. The aims of this study were to determine relationships between (1) major depressive disorder (MDD) and depressive symptom severity during pregnancy and breastfeeding intention; (2) MDD and depressive symptom severity during pregnancy and breastfeeding initiation and status at 2 and 12 weeks; and (3) serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI) use and breastfeeding intention, initiation, and status at 2 and 12 weeks. METHOD Women were followed prospectively from pregnancy through 12 weeks postpartum for infant feeding intention (breast, breast and formula, formula, and uncertain), feeding practices and MDD (Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Disorders), and depressive symptom severity (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale). Bivariate analyses and multivariable regression modeling were conducted. The study was conducted from July 2004 to September 2007. RESULTS Study participants (intention n = 168, initiation n = 151, 2 weeks n = 137, 12 weeks n=103) were well educated (63% college degrees), older (49% ≥ or = 31 years), and predominantly white (77%). At enrollment, 23% had MDD, 21% had significant depressive symptoms, and 16% were taking an SRI. Neither MDD nor depressive symptom severity in pregnancy was related to breastfeeding intention, initiation or duration at 2 and 12 weeks. Intention to exclusively breastfeed was the most significant predictor of breastfeeding initiation and duration. SRI use in pregnancy was negatively associated with breastfeeding intention. SRI use at 2 weeks was negatively associated with 12-week breastfeeding status. CONCLUSION Pregnancy is the optimal time to intervene to increase breastfeeding rates. Future research should identify strategies to overcome breastfeeding barriers posed by SRI use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra L Bogen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Division of General Academic Pediatrics, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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Santos F, Oraichi D, Bérard A. Prevalence and predictors of anti-infective use during pregnancy. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2010; 19:418-27. [DOI: 10.1002/pds.1915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Perception of risk regarding the use of medications and other exposures during pregnancy. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2009; 66:207-14. [PMID: 19841915 DOI: 10.1007/s00228-009-0744-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2009] [Accepted: 10/01/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perception of risk may impact a woman's decision to take a needed drug during pregnancy. There is a paucity of research on this topic in the literature. OBJECTIVES (1) To evaluate the perception of risk of 17 commonly used drugs and other substances by pregnant women. (2) To investigate which sources of information regarding exposures during pregnancy were most commonly used by women. METHODS A questionnaire was developed through the University of Oslo's website for Internet surveys and posted on four Web pages used by pregnant women and mothers, from mid-September 2008 through October 2008. The inclusion criteria included women who were (1) pregnant or 2) a mother of a child less than 5 years old. RESULTS A total of 1,793 eligible women completed the questionnaire. Most women overestimated the teratogenic risk associated with all the drugs during pregnancy. Characteristics of the women that were associated with a high perception of risk were primiparity, higher age, higher education, and choosing not to use a drug during pregnancy. More than 80% of the women had used drugs during pregnancy, mostly paracetamol, penicillins and reflux medications. The physician, the product information leaflet and the pharmacist were the three most frequently used sources of information. CONCLUSION Women overestimate the risk of drug use and other exposures during pregnancy. Therefore, it is important for health care providers to use evidence-based information, to reduce unnecessary anxiety, and to ensure safe and appropriate treatment during pregnancy.
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Guillén JMB, Company ES. Use of antipsychotics during pregnancy and breastfeeding. REVISTA DE PSIQUIATRIA Y SALUD MENTAL 2009; 2:138-45. [PMID: 23034313 DOI: 10.1016/s1888-9891(09)72405-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2009] [Accepted: 04/28/2009] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
There is growing acceptance that pregnancy itself is not a protective factor against mental disorders. Indeed, some mental disorders such as psychotic and bipolar disorders may become worse during pregnancy and the immediate postpartum period. In pregnant women with a mental disorder that can be treated with antipsychotics, the known risks -teratogenic, obstetric, neonatal and those affecting the mother- indicate that, in general, the risk of the non-treated disorder is higher than that resulting from the use of antipsychotics and that the reduction in psychoticism improves the overall prognosis of these women. All the antipsychotics marketed in Spain are included in category C of the US Food and Drug Administration, with the exception of clozapine and piperazine, which are included in category B. The use of all of these drugs should be avoided during breast feeding as far as possible. The most reliable current recommendations indicate that optimal control of severe mental disorders should be maintained during pregnancy, the postpartum and subsequent periods. These recommendations also indicate that women with mental disorders must be considered as high risk and that both these women and their pregnancies should be constantly monitored. The currently available scientific information does not allow more than relatively secure individually-tailored recommendations to be made. When taking the decision of whether or not to treat with antipsychotics, the use of a risk-benefit relationship is crucial, with the participation of the woman's partner or legal representative, other physicians and even the clinical pharmacist if necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Manuel Bertolín Guillén
- Unidad de Hospitalización Psiquiátrica, Servicio de Psiquiatría, Departamento de Salud Valencia-Arnau de Vilanova, Agència Valenciana de Salut, Valencia, España.
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