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Binkhorst M, Hogeveen M. Trying to get breastfeeding women out of the pharmaceutical orphanage. Pediatr Res 2024:10.1038/s41390-024-03164-w. [PMID: 38609566 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-024-03164-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Mathijs Binkhorst
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Paediatrics, Radboud University Medical Center Amalia Children's Hospital, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Marije Hogeveen
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Paediatrics, Radboud University Medical Center Amalia Children's Hospital, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
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2
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Albogami Y, Alfakhri A, Alaqil A, Alkoraishi A, Alshammari H, Elsharawy Y, Alhammad A, Alhossan A. Safety and quality of AI chatbots for drug-related inquiries: A real-world comparison with licensed pharmacists. Digit Health 2024; 10:20552076241253523. [PMID: 38757086 PMCID: PMC11097738 DOI: 10.1177/20552076241253523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pharmacists play a pivotal role in ensuring patients are administered safe and effective medications; however, they encounter obstacles such as elevated workloads and a scarcity of qualified professionals. Despite the prospective utility of large language models (LLMs), such as Generative Pre-trained Transformers (GPTs), in addressing pharmaceutical inquiries, their applicability in real-world cases remains unexplored. Objective To evaluate GPT-based chatbots' accuracy in real-world drug-related inquiries, comparing their performance to licensed pharmacists. Methods In this cross-sectional study, authors analyzed real-world drug inquiries from a Drug Information Inquiry Database. Two independent pharmacists evaluated the performance of GPT-based chatbots (GPT-3, GPT-3.5, GPT-4) against human pharmacists using accuracy, detail, and risk of harm criteria. Descriptive statistics described inquiry characteristics. Absolute proportion comparative analyses assessed accuracy, detail, and risk of harm. Stratified analyses were performed for different inquiry types. Results Seventy inquiries were included. Most inquiries were received from physicians (41%) and pharmacists (44%). Inquiries type included dosage/administration (34.2%), drug interaction (12.8%) and pregnancy/lactation (15.7%). Majority of inquires included adults (83%) and female patients (54.3%). GPT-4 had 64.3% completely accurate responses, comparable to human pharmacists. GPT-4 and human pharmacists provided sufficiently detailed responses, with GPT-4 offering additional relevant details. Both GPT-4 and human pharmacists delivered 95% safe responses; however, GPT-4 provided proactive risk mitigation information in 70% of the instances, whereas similar information was included in 25.7% of human pharmacists' responses. Conclusion Our study showcased GPT-4's potential in addressing drug-related inquiries accurately and safely, comparable to human pharmacists. Current GPT-4-based chatbots could support healthcare professionals and foster global health improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasser Albogami
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Abdulaziz Alaqil
- Pharmaceutical Care Division, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aljawharah Alkoraishi
- Drug and Poison Information Center, Pharmacy Department, King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Heba Alshammari
- Drug and Poison Information Center, Pharmacy Department, King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yasmin Elsharawy
- Drug and Poison Information Center, Pharmacy Department, King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Alhammad
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz Alhossan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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3
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Crescioli G, Lombardi N, Vannacci A. Editorial: Safety of drugs and CAM products in pregnancy and breastfeeding: evidence from clinical toxicology. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1340283. [PMID: 38125890 PMCID: PMC10731452 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1340283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Giada Crescioli
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Tuscan Regional Centre of Pharmacovigilance, Florence, Italy
| | - Niccolò Lombardi
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Tuscan Regional Centre of Pharmacovigilance, Florence, Italy
| | - Alfredo Vannacci
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Tuscan Regional Centre of Pharmacovigilance, Florence, Italy
- Joint Laboratory of Technological Solutions for Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacovigilance and Bioinformatics, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Menon R, Muglia LJ, Levin LH. Review on new approach methods to gain insight into the feto-maternal interface physiology. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1304002. [PMID: 38098843 PMCID: PMC10720461 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1304002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-human animals represent a large and important feature in the history of biomedical research. The validity of their use, in terms of reproducible outcomes and translational confidence to the human situation, as well as ethical concerns surrounding that use, have been and remain controversial topics. Over the last 10 years, the communities developing microphysiological systems (MPS) have produced new approach method (NAMs) such as organoids and organs-on-a-chip. These alternative methodologies have shown indications of greater reliability and translatability than animal use in some areas, represent more humane substitutions for animals in these settings, and - with continued scientific effort - may change the conduct of basic research, clinical studies, safety testing, and drug development. Here, we present an introduction to these more human-relevant methodologies and suggest how a suite of pregnancy associated feto-maternal interface system-oriented NAMs may be integrated as reliable partial-/full animal replacements for investigators, significantly aid animal-/environmental welfare, and improve healthcare outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramkumar Menon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Louis J. Muglia
- The Burroughs Wellcome Fund, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
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Shenkoya B, Yellepeddi V, Mark K, Gopalakrishnan M. Predicting Maternal and Infant Tetrahydrocannabinol Exposure in Lactating Cannabis Users: A Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling Approach. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2467. [PMID: 37896227 PMCID: PMC10610403 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15102467] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A knowledge gap exists in infant tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) data to guide breastfeeding recommendations for mothers who use cannabis. In the present study, a paired lactation and infant physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model was developed and verified. The verified model was used to simulate one hundred virtual lactating mothers (mean age: 28 years, body weight: 78 kg) who smoked 0.32 g of cannabis containing 14.14% THC, either once or multiple times. The simulated breastfeeding conditions included one-hour post smoking and subsequently every three hours. The mean peak concentration (Cmax) and area under the concentration-time curve (AUC(0-24 h)) for breastmilk were higher than in plasma (Cmax: 155 vs. 69.9 ng/mL; AUC(0-24 h): 924.9 vs. 273.4 ng·hr/mL) with a milk-to-plasma AUC ratio of 3.3. The predicted relative infant dose ranged from 0.34% to 0.88% for infants consuming THC-containing breastmilk between birth and 12 months. However, the mother-to-infant plasma AUC(0-24 h) ratio increased up to three-fold (3.4-3.6) with increased maternal cannabis smoking up to six times. Our study demonstrated the successful development and application of a lactation and infant PBPK model for exploring THC exposure in infants, and the results can potentially inform breastfeeding recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babajide Shenkoya
- Center for Translational Medicine, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Venkata Yellepeddi
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- Department of Molecular Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Katrina Mark
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 11 S Paca, Suite 400, Baltimore, MD 21042, USA
| | - Mathangi Gopalakrishnan
- Center for Translational Medicine, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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6
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Li Y, Wu Y, Jiang T, Xing H, Xu J, Li C, Ni R, Zhang N, Xiang G, Li L, Li Z, Gan L, Liu Y. Opportunities and challenges of pharmacovigilance in special populations: a narrative review of the literature. Ther Adv Drug Saf 2023; 14:20420986231200746. [PMID: 37780667 PMCID: PMC10540608 DOI: 10.1177/20420986231200746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The relatively new discipline of pharmacovigilance (PV) aims to monitor the safety of drugs throughout their evolution and is essential to discovering new drug risks. Due to their specific and complex physiology, children, pregnant women, and elderly adults are more prone to adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Additionally, the lack of clinical trial data exacerbates the challenges faced with pharmacotherapy in these populations. Elderly patients tend to have multiple comorbidities often requiring more extensive medication, which adds additional challenges for healthcare professionals (HCPs) in delivering safe and effective pharmacotherapy. Clinical trials often have inherent limitations, including insufficient sample size and limited duration of research; as some ADRs are attributed to long-term use of a drug, these may go undetected during the course of the trial. Therefore, the implementation of PV is key to insuring the safe and effective use of drugs in special populations. We conducted a thorough review of the scientific literature on PV systems across the European Union, the United States, and China. Our review focused on basic physiological characteristics, drug use, and PV for specific populations (children, pregnant women, and the elderly). This article aims to provide a reference for the development of follow-up policies and improvement of existing policies as well as provide insight into drug safety with respect to patients of special populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanping Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuanlin Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tingting Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Haiyan Xing
- Department of Pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chen Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Rui Ni
- Department of Pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ni Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guiyuan Xiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ziwei Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lanlan Gan
- Department of Pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yao Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No. 10 Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400042, China
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Alsmadi MM. Evaluating the Pharmacokinetics of Fentanyl in the Brain Extracellular Fluid, Saliva, Urine, and Plasma of Newborns from Transplacental Exposure from Parturient Mothers Dosed with Epidural Fentanyl Utilizing PBPK Modeling. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet 2023; 48:567-586. [PMID: 37563443 DOI: 10.1007/s13318-023-00842-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Fentanyl can mitigate the mother and newborn complications resulting from labor pain. However, fentanyl shows a narrow therapeutic index between its respiratory depressive and analgesic effects. Thus, prenatally acquired high fentanyl levels in the newborn brain extracellular fluid (bECF) may induce respiratory depression which requires therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). TDM using saliva and urine in newborns can reduce the possibility of infections and distress associated with TDM using blood. The objective of this study was to develop a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model to predict fentanyl concentrations in different newborn tissues due to intrauterine exposure. METHODS A fentanyl PBPK model in adults after intravenous and epidural administration was built, validated, and scaled to pregnancy and newborn populations. The dose that the newborn received transplacentally at birth was calculated using the pregnancy model. Then, the newborn bECF, saliva, plasma, and urine concentrations after such a dose were predicted using the newborn PBPK model. RESULTS After a maternal epidural dose of fentanyl 245 µg, the predicted newborn plasma and bECF levels were below the toxicity thresholds. Furthermore, the salivary threshold levels in newborns for fentanyl analgesic and respiratory depression effects were estimated to be 0.39 and 14.7-18.2 ng/ml, respectively. CONCLUSION The salivary TDM of fentanyl in newborns can be useful in newborns exposed to intrauterine exposure from parturient females dosed with epidural fentanyl. However, newborn-specific values of µ-opioid receptors IC50 for respiratory depression are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mo'tasem M Alsmadi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan.
- Nanotechnology Institute, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan.
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8
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Kammala AK, Richardson LS, Radnaa E, Han A, Menon R. Microfluidic technology and simulation models in studying pharmacokinetics during pregnancy. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1241815. [PMID: 37663251 PMCID: PMC10469630 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1241815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Preterm birth rates and maternal and neonatal mortality remain concerning global health issues, necessitating improved strategies for testing therapeutic compounds during pregnancy. Current 2D or 3D cell models and animal models often fail to provide data that can effectively translate into clinical trials, leading to pregnant women being excluded from drug development considerations and clinical studies. To address this limitation, we explored the utility of in silico simulation modeling and microfluidic-based organ-on-a-chip platforms to assess potential interventional agents. Methods: We developed a multi-organ feto-maternal interface on-chip (FMi-PLA-OOC) utilizing microfluidic channels to maintain intercellular interactions among seven different cell types (fetal membrane-decidua-placenta). This platform enabled the investigation of drug pharmacokinetics in vitro. Pravastatin, a model drug known for its efficacy in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation during pregnancy and currently in clinical trials, was used to test its transfer rate across both feto-maternal interfaces. The data obtained from FMi-PLA-OOC were compared with existing data from in vivo animal models and ex vivo placenta perfusion models. Additionally, we employed mechanistically based simulation software (Gastroplus®) to predict pravastatin pharmacokinetics in pregnant subjects based on validated nonpregnant drug data. Results: Pravastatin transfer across the FMi-PLA-OOC and predicted pharmacokinetics in the in silico models were found to be similar, approximately 18%. In contrast, animal models showed supraphysiologic drug accumulation in the amniotic fluid, reaching approximately 33%. Discussion: The results from this study suggest that the FMi-PLA-OOC and in silico models can serve as alternative methods for studying drug pharmacokinetics during pregnancy, providing valuable insights into drug transport and metabolism across the placenta and fetal membranes. These advanced platforms offer promising opportunities for safe, reliable, and faster testing of therapeutic compounds, potentially reducing the number of pregnant women referred to as "therapeutic orphans" due to the lack of consideration in drug development and clinical trials. By bridging the gap between preclinical studies and clinical trials, these approaches hold great promise in improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ananth K. Kammala
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Lauren S. Richardson
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Enkhtuya Radnaa
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Arum Han
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
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Herskind AEJ, Nørgaard B. Gender representation in drug development studies for diabetes mellitus. A systematic review. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2023; 17:102815. [PMID: 37413814 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2023.102815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the last 20 years, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) has increased drastically, and so has the number of associated medicine and drug development studies. Despite knowing that men and women respond differently to DM medicines, biological gender differences still tend not to be prioritized during medicine development. OBJECTIVE This study examined gender representation in medicine development studies for DM. METHOD We conducted a systematic review, and in February 2022, we searched EMBASE (Excerpta Medica Database), MEDLINE (Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online) and PubMed using a block search strategy. Randomized controlled studies (RCTs) including people diagnosed with DM (any type) aged 18-65 years were included. The Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trial 2010 checklist was applied to assess the studies' reported quality. The results are presented in a narrative synthesis. RESULTS Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. On average, women represented 31.4% of study participants, and similarly, for each trial phase, women were less represented than men. CONCLUSION This review showed an unequal gender representation in drug development studies for DM, with women and men representing 31.4% and 68.6% of the study participants, respectively, in the included studies. However, gender differences in medical drug studies might be due to specific exclusion criteria, participants' behaviour toward attending in medicine development or the law in the country of origin.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Birgitte Nørgaard
- Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej9, 5000, Odense C, Denmark.
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Cardoso E, Guidi M, Nauwelaerts N, Nordeng H, Teil M, Allegaert K, Smits A, Gandia P, Edginton A, Ito S, Annaert P, Panchaud A. Safety of medicines during breastfeeding - from case report to modeling : A contribution from the ConcePTION project. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2023. [PMID: 37269321 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2023.2221847] [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: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite many research efforts, current data on the safety of medicines during breastfeeding are either fragmented or lacking, resulting in restrictive labeling of most medicines. In the absence of pharmacoepidemiologic safety studies, risk estimation for breastfed infants is mainly derived from pharmacokinetic (PK) information on the medicine. This manuscript provides a description and a comparison of the different methodological approaches that can yield reliable information on medicine transfer into human milk and the resulting infant exposure. AREA COVERED Currently, most information on medicine transfer in human milk relies on case reports or traditional PK studies, which generate data that can hardly be generalized to the population. Some methodological approaches, such as population PK (popPK) and physiologically-based PK (PBPK) modeling, can be used to provide a more complete characterization of infant medicine exposure through human milk and simulate the most extreme situations, while decreasing the burden of sampling in breastfeeding women. EXPERT OPINION PBPK and popPK modeling are promising approaches to fill the gap of knowledge in medicine safety in breastfeeding, as illustrated with our escitalopram example.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelina Cardoso
- Service of Pharmacy, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Monia Guidi
- Service of Clinical Pharmacology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Center for Research and Innovation in Clinical Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nina Nauwelaerts
- Drug Delivery and Disposition Lab, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Hedvig Nordeng
- Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, PharmaTox Strategic Initiative, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Child Health and Development, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Karel Allegaert
- Child and Youth Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy,erasmus MC, Rotterdam, GA, The Netherlands
| | - Anne Smits
- Child and Youth Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Peggy Gandia
- Laboratory of Pharmacokinetics and Toxicology, Purpan Hospital, University Hospital of Toulouse
| | - Andrea Edginton
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Shinya Ito
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, The Hospital for Sick Children, ON, Canada
| | - Pieter Annaert
- Drug Delivery and Disposition Lab, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Alice Panchaud
- Service of Pharmacy, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Thomas SP, Denizer E, Zuffa S, Best BM, Bode L, Chambers CD, Dorrestein PC, Liu GY, Momper JD, Nizet V, Tsunoda SM, Tremoulet AH. Transfer of antibiotics and their metabolites in human milk: Implications for infant health and microbiota. Pharmacotherapy 2023; 43:442-451. [PMID: 36181712 PMCID: PMC10763576 DOI: 10.1002/phar.2732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Antibiotics are an essential tool for perinatal care. While antibiotics can play a life-saving role for both parents and infants, they also cause collateral damage to the beneficial bacteria that make up the host gut microbiota. This is especially true for infants, whose developing gut microbiota is uniquely sensitive to antibiotic perturbation. Emerging evidence suggests that disruption of these bacterial populations during this crucial developmental window can have long-term effects on infant health and development. Although most current studies have focused on microbial disruptions caused by direct antibiotic administration to infants or prenatal exposure to antibiotics administered to the mother, little is known about whether antibiotics in human milk may pose similar risks to the infant. This review surveys current data on antibiotic transfer during lactation and highlights new methodologies to assess drug transfer in human milk. Finally, we provide recommendations for future work to ensure antibiotic use in lactating parents is safe and effective for both parents and infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney P. Thomas
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, UC San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Collaborative Mass Spectrometry Innovation Center, UC San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Erce Denizer
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, UC San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Collaborative Mass Spectrometry Innovation Center, UC San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Simone Zuffa
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, UC San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Collaborative Mass Spectrometry Innovation Center, UC San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Brookie M. Best
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, UC San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Pediatrics Department-Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Lars Bode
- Pediatrics Department-Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California, USA
- Mother-Milk-Infant Center of Research Excellence (MOMI CORE), UC San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Christina D. Chambers
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, UC San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Pediatrics Department-Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California, USA
- Hebert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, UC San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Pieter C. Dorrestein
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, UC San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Collaborative Mass Spectrometry Innovation Center, UC San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - George Y. Liu
- Pediatrics Department-Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Jeremiah D. Momper
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, UC San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Victor Nizet
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, UC San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Pediatrics Department-Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Shirley M. Tsunoda
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, UC San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Adriana H. Tremoulet
- Pediatrics Department-Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California, USA
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Alsmadi MM, Idkaidek N. The Analysis of Pethidine Pharmacokinetics in Newborn Saliva, Plasma, and Brain Extracellular Fluid After Prenatal Intrauterine Exposure from Pregnant Mothers Receiving Intramuscular Dose Using PBPK Modeling. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet 2023; 48:281-300. [PMID: 37017867 DOI: 10.1007/s13318-023-00823-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Pethidine (meperidine) can decrease labor pain-associated mother's hyperventilation and high cortisol-induced newborn complications. However, prenatal transplacentally acquired pethidine can cause side effects in newborns. High pethidine concentrations in the newborn brain extracellular fluid (bECF) can cause a serotonin crisis. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in newborns' blood distresses them and increases infection incidence, which can be overcome by using salivary TDM. Physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling can predict drug concentrations in newborn plasma, saliva, and bECF after intrauterine pethidine exposure. METHODS A healthy adult PBPK model was constructed, verified, and scaled to newborn and pregnant populations after intravenous and intramuscular pethidine administration. The pregnancy PBPK model was used to predict the newborn dose received transplacentally at birth, which was used as input to the newborn PBPK model to predict newborn plasma, saliva, and bECF pethidine concentrations and set correlation equations between them. RESULTS Pethidine can be classified as a Salivary Excretion Classification System class II drug. The developed PBPK model predicted that, after maternal pethidine intramuscular doses of 100 mg and 150 mg, the newborn plasma and bECF concentrations were below the toxicity thresholds. Moreover, it was estimated that newborn saliva concentrations of 4.7 µM, 11.4 µM, and 57.7 µM can be used as salivary threshold concentrations for pethidine analgesic effects, side effects, and the risk for serotonin crisis, respectively, in newborns. CONCLUSION It was shown that saliva can be used for pethidine TDM in newborns during the first few days after delivery to mothers receiving pethidine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mo'tasem M Alsmadi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O.Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan.
- Nanotechnology Institute, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O.Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan.
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Anand A, Phillips K, Subramanian A, Lee SI, Wang Z, McCowan R, Agrawal U, Fagbamigbe AF, Nelson-Piercy C, Brocklehurst P, Damase-Michel C, Loane M, Nirantharakumar K, Azcoaga-Lorenzo A. Prevalence of polypharmacy in pregnancy: a systematic review. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e067585. [PMID: 36878655 PMCID: PMC9990613 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-067585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The use of medications among pregnant women has been rising over the past few decades but the reporting of polypharmacy has been sporadic. The objective of this review is to identify literature reporting the prevalence of polypharmacy among pregnant women, the prevalence of multimorbidity in women taking multiple medications in pregnancy and associated effects on maternal and offspring outcomes. DESIGN MEDLINE and Embase were searched from their inception to 14 September 2021 for interventional trials, observational studies and systematic reviews reporting on the prevalence of polypharmacy or the use of multiple medications in pregnancy were included.Data on prevalence of polypharmacy, prevalence of multimorbidity, combinations of medications and pregnancy and offspring outcomes were extracted. A descriptive analysis was performed. RESULTS Fourteen studies met the review criteria. The prevalence of women being prescribed two or more medications during pregnancy ranged from 4.9% (4.3%-5.5%) to 62.4% (61.3%-63.5%), with a median of 22.5%. For the first trimester, prevalence ranged from 4.9% (4.7%-5.14%) to 33.7% (32.2%-35.1%). No study reported on the prevalence of multimorbidity, or associated pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to polypharmacy. CONCLUSION There is a significant burden of polypharmacy among pregnant women. There is a need for evidence on the combinations of medications prescribed in pregnancy, how this specifically affects women with multiple long-term conditions and the associated benefits and harms. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT Our systematic review shows significant burden of polypharmacy in pregnancy but outcomes for women and offspring are unknown. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021223966.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astha Anand
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Katherine Phillips
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Siang Ing Lee
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Zhaonan Wang
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Utkarsh Agrawal
- Division of Population and Behavioural Sciences, University of Saint Andrews School of Medicine, St. Andrews, UK
| | - Adeniyi Frances Fagbamigbe
- Division of Population and Behavioural Sciences, University of Saint Andrews School of Medicine, St. Andrews, UK
- Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | | | - Peter Brocklehurst
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Maria Loane
- Institute of Nursing and Health Research, University of Ulster, Belfast, UK
| | | | - Amaya Azcoaga-Lorenzo
- Division of Population and Behavioural Sciences, University of Saint Andrews School of Medicine, St. Andrews, UK
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14
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Suarez EA, Nguyen M, Zhang D, Zhao Y, Stojanovic D, Munoz M, Liedtka J, Anderson A, Liu W, Dashevsky I, Cole D, DeLuccia S, Menzin T, Noble J, Maro JC. Novel methods for pregnancy drug safety surveillance in the FDA Sentinel System. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2023; 32:126-136. [PMID: 35871766 DOI: 10.1002/pds.5512] [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: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE It is a priority of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to monitor the safety of medications used during pregnancy. Pregnancy exposure registries and cohort studies utilizing electronic health record data are primary sources of information but are limited by small sample sizes and limited outcome assessment. TreeScan™, a statistical data mining tool, can be applied within the FDA Sentinel System to simultaneously identify multiple potential adverse neonatal and infant outcomes after maternal medication exposure. METHODS We implemented TreeScan using the Sentinel analytic tools in a cohort of linked live birth deliveries and infants nested in the IBM MarketScan® Research Database. As a case study, we compared first trimester fluoroquinolone use and cephalosporin use. We used the Bernoulli and Poisson TreeScan statistics with compatible propensity score-based study designs for confounding control (matching and stratification) and used multiple propensity score models with various strategies for confounding control to inform best practices. We developed a hierarchical outcome tree including major congenital malformations and outcomes of gestational length and birth weight. RESULTS A total of 1791 fluoroquinolone-exposed and 8739 cephalosporin-exposed mother-infant pairs were eligible for analysis. Both TreeScan analysis methods resulted in single alerts that were deemed to be due to uncontrolled confounding or otherwise not warranting follow-up. CONCLUSIONS In this implementation of TreeScan using Sentinel analytic tools, we did not observe any new safety signals for fluoroquinolone use in the first trimester. TreeScan, with tailored or high-dimensional propensity scores for confounding control, is a valuable tool in addition to current safety surveillance methods for medications used during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Suarez
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael Nguyen
- Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Di Zhang
- Office of Biostatistics, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Yueqin Zhao
- Office of Biostatistics, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Danijela Stojanovic
- Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Monica Munoz
- Division of Pharmacovigilance, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Jane Liedtka
- Division of Pediatric and Maternal Health, Center for Drug and Evaluation Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Abby Anderson
- Division of Urology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Drug and Evaluation Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Beltsville, Maryland, USA
| | - Wei Liu
- Division of Epidemiology, Center for Drug and Evaluation Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Inna Dashevsky
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David Cole
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sandra DeLuccia
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Talia Menzin
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jennifer Noble
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Judith C Maro
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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15
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Lyons JG, Suarez EA, Fazio-Eynullayeva E, Maro JC, Corey C, Li J, Toh S, Shinde MU. Assessing medical product safety during pregnancy using parameterizable tools in the sentinel distributed database. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2023; 32:158-215. [PMID: 36351880 DOI: 10.1002/pds.5568] [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: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The US Food and Drug Administration established the Sentinel System to monitor the safety of medical products. A component of this system includes parameterizable analytic tools to identify mother-infant pairs and evaluate infant outcomes to enable the routine monitoring of the utilization and safety of drugs used in pregnancy. We assessed the feasibility of using the data and tools in the Sentinel System by assessing a known association between topiramate use during pregnancy and oral clefts in the infant. METHODS We identified mother-infant pairs using the mother-infant linkage table from six data partners contributing to the Sentinel Distributed Database from January 1, 2000, to September 30, 2015. We compared mother-infant pairs with first-trimester exposure to topiramate to mother-infant pairs that were topiramate-unexposed or lamotrigine-exposed and used a validated algorithm to identify oral clefts in the infant. We estimated adjusted risk ratios through propensity score stratification. RESULTS There were 2007 topiramate-exposed and 1 066 086 unexposed mother-infant pairs in the main comparison. In the active-comparator analysis, there were 1996 topiramate-exposed and 2859 lamotrigine-exposed mother-infant pairs. After propensity score stratification, the odds ratio for oral clefts was 2.92 (95% CI: 1.43, 5.93) comparing the topiramate-exposed to unexposed groups and 2.72 (95% CI: 0.75, 9.93) comparing the topiramate-exposed to lamotrigine-exposed groups. CONCLUSIONS We found an increased risk of oral clefts after topiramate exposure in the first trimester in the Sentinel database. These results are similar to prior published observational study results and demonstrate the ability of Sentinel's data and analytic tools to assess medical product safety in cohorts of mother-infant pairs in a timely manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer G Lyons
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Suarez
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Elnara Fazio-Eynullayeva
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Judith C Maro
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Catherine Corey
- Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology, CDER, United States Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Jie Li
- Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology, CDER, United States Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Sengwee Toh
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mayura U Shinde
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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16
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Tigka M, Vivilaki V, Metallinou D, Nanou C, Lykeridou A. The value of midwifery counseling during lactation as a key factor of pharmacovigilance. Eur J Midwifery 2022; 6:65. [DOI: 10.18332/ejm/156439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Iribarren A, Diniz MA, Merz CNB, Shufelt C, Wei J. Are we any WISER yet? Progress and contemporary need for smart trials to include women in coronary artery disease trials. Contemp Clin Trials 2022; 117:106762. [PMID: 35460916 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2022.106762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Despite calls to ensure proportionate representation of both sexes in biomedical research, women continue to be underrepresented in cardiovascular disease (CVD) clinical trials. A comprehensive analysis of seven large suspected ischemic heart disease/coronary artery disease (HD/CAD) clinical trials (PROMISE, ISCHEMIA, CIAO-ISCHEMIA, ORBITA, FAME, FAME 2 and COURAGE trial) provides understanding of contributions to barriers to enrollment of women and leads to strategies to address these barriers. Specifically, in the seven trials, enrollment of women did not exceed 27%, while numerous barriers are evident. Proposed strategies to improve women´s inclusion in clinical trials, include adding reproductive stage/estrogen status, attention to study design inclusion/exclusion criteria using female thresholds, consideration of diagnostic and intervention study design to be inclusive, increasing women and minorities in leadership positions, including sex as a biological variable (SABV) in study design and statistical analysis, and addressing social and race/ethnicity barriers. Dedicated action to actualizing these steps are needed at this time to developing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies resulting in better care and improved outcomes for CVD in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Iribarren
- Barbra Streisand Women's Heart Center, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Márcio Augusto Diniz
- Barbra Streisand Women's Heart Center, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - C Noel Bairey Merz
- Barbra Streisand Women's Heart Center, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Chrisandra Shufelt
- Barbra Streisand Women's Heart Center, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Janet Wei
- Barbra Streisand Women's Heart Center, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA.
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18
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Re-orienting anti-malarial drug development to better serve pregnant women. Malar J 2022; 21:121. [PMID: 35413907 PMCID: PMC9003153 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-022-04137-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria is one of the most serious infectious diseases affecting predominantly low- and middle-income countries, where pregnant women are among the populations at risk. There are limited options to prevent or treat malaria in pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, and existing ones may not work optimally in areas where the threat of drug resistance is rising. As malaria elimination is a key goal of the global health community, the inclusion of pregnant women in the adult population to protect from malaria will be key to achieving success. New, safe, and effective options are needed but it can take decades of evidence-gathering before a medicine is recommended for use in pregnancy. This is because pregnant women are typically not included in pre-registration clinical trials due to fear of causing harm. Data to support dosing and safety in pregnancy are subsequently collected in post-licensure studies. There have been growing calls in recent years that this practice needs to change, amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic and increasing public awareness that newly developed medicines generally cannot be administered to pregnant women from the onset. The development of new anti-malarials should ensure that data informing their use in pregnancy and breastfeeding are available earlier. To achieve this, a mindset change and a different approach to medications for pregnant women are needed. Changes in non-clinical, translational, and clinical approaches in the drug development pathway, in line with recent recommendations from the regulatory bodies are proposed in this Comment. The new approach applies to any malaria-endemic region, regardless of the type of Plasmodium responsible for malaria cases. By incorporating intentional and systematic data collection from pre-registration stages of development through post-licensure, it will be possible to inform on the benefit/risk balance of a new anti-malarial earlier and help ensure that the needs of pregnant individuals are addressed in a more timely and equitable manner in the future.
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19
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Shawahna R, Zaid L. Concentrations of antiseizure medications in breast milk of lactating women with epilepsy: A systematic review with qualitative synthesis. Seizure 2022; 98:57-70. [PMID: 35427849 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2022.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent position papers and guidelines encourage women with epilepsy (WWE) to exclusively breastfeed their infants because the benefits to their infants outweigh the potential adverse effects caused by exposure to antiseizure medications (ASMs). OBJECTIVE The objectives of this review were: to evaluate concentrations of ASMs in breastmilk of lactating WWE, qualitatively synthesize evidence that can be used to estimate theoretical doses as estimated daily intake (EDI) and relative infant dose (RID) of ASMs, and to evaluate potential risks to infants as a result of exposure to ASMs from breastmilk. METHODS This systematic review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) as CRD42020223645. The databases: MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL/EBSCO, COCHRANE, SpringerLink, ScienceDirect, Summon, WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and SCOPUS were systematically searched. A qualitative synthesis was adopted in this study. RESULTS A total of 15 records were included in this systematic review. The included studies reported levels of 8 ASMs in the breastmilk of WWE. The highest RIDs of carbamazepine, lamotrigine, primidone, phenobarbital, gabapentin, valproic acid, ethosuximide, levetiracetam, and topiramate were 3.70%, 36.33%, 4.96%, 3.15%, 4.37%, 1.90%, 31.49%, 12.50%, and 12.18%, respectively. Breastfeeding might be limited or even discontinued when signs of excessive sedation/drowsiness and/or poor weight gain are evident on infants exposed to primidone and phenobarbital, ethosuximide/primidone, or ethosuximide/phenobarbital. CONCLUSIONS Concentrations of ASMs can be detected in breastmilk of WWE and plasma/serum of infants exposed via breastmilk. Healthcare providers and WWE might use the findings of this study to make informed decisions on the safety of breastfeeding while taking ASMs.
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20
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Gribble KD, Bewley S, Bartick MC, Mathisen R, Walker S, Gamble J, Bergman NJ, Gupta A, Hocking JJ, Dahlen HG. Effective Communication About Pregnancy, Birth, Lactation, Breastfeeding and Newborn Care: The Importance of Sexed Language. Front Glob Womens Health 2022; 3:818856. [PMID: 35224545 PMCID: PMC8864964 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2022.818856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Karleen D. Gribble
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, Parramatta, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Karleen D. Gribble
| | - Susan Bewley
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Melissa C. Bartick
- Mount Auburn Hospital, Cambridge, MA, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Roger Mathisen
- Alive & Thrive Southeast Asia, FHI Solutions, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Shawn Walker
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jenny Gamble
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Centre for Health Care Research, Coventry University, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Nils J. Bergman
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Arun Gupta
- Breastfeeding Promotion Network of India, New Delhi, India
| | - Jennifer J. Hocking
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Hannah G. Dahlen
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, Parramatta, NSW, Australia
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21
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Groot EL, Huet RA, Bloemenkamp KW, Boer JH, Ossewaarde‐van Norel J. Idiopathic multifocal choroiditis and punctate inner choroidopathy: an evaluation in pregnancy. Acta Ophthalmol 2022; 100:82-88. [PMID: 34009733 PMCID: PMC9291166 DOI: 10.1111/aos.14898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the clinical course of idiopathic multifocal choroiditis (MFC) and punctate inner choroidopathy (PIC) and the efficacy and safety of treatment options during pregnancy. Methods Patients with MFC or PIC and a pregnancy in 2011–2019 from two academic centres were enrolled. For the most recent pregnancy, data on best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) before and after pregnancy, relapse rate in pregnancy and postpartum period and obstetric, maternal and neonatal outcomes were collected. Treatment regimens consisted of a wait‐and‐see regime and an immunosuppressive treatment regime with systemic corticosteroids and/or azathioprine, both combined with intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor injections when indicated. Results Sixteen women (26 affected eyes) were included. Median Snellen BCVA was 20/19 before pregnancy and 20/18 after delivery. In seven pregnancies a wait‐and‐see regime and in nine pregnancies an immunosuppressive treatment regime was carried out. Fourteen intravitreal anti‐VEGF injections were given in six pregnancies. The relapse rate during pregnancy was 44% and in the postpartum period 31%. Maternal/obstetrical and fetal complications occurred in 31% and 13% of the pregnancies, respectively. Fifteen healthy children were born and one pregnancy ended in a stillbirth in a patient with a complicated obstetrical history. One patient treated with azathioprine developed intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). Conclusions Among women with MFC and PIC BCVA remained stable during pregnancy despite a relapse rate of 44% in pregnancy. No major maternal, obstetric and fetal complications occurred in pregnant patients treated with systemic corticosteroids, azathioprine or intravitreal anti‐VEGF injections, though one patient developed ICP while treated with azathioprine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evianne L. Groot
- Department of Ophthalmology University Medical Center Utrecht Utrecht the Netherlands
| | - Ramon A.C. Huet
- Department of Ophthalmology Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen the Netherlands
| | - Kitty W.M. Bloemenkamp
- Department of Obstetrics Birth Center Wilhelmina’s Children Hospital University Medical Center Utrecht Utrecht the Netherlands
| | - Joke H. Boer
- Department of Ophthalmology University Medical Center Utrecht Utrecht the Netherlands
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22
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Gross AS, Harry AC, Clifton CS, Pasqua OD. Clinical Trial Diversity: An Opportunity for Improved Insight into the Determinants of Variability in Drug Response. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2022; 88:2700-2717. [PMID: 35088432 PMCID: PMC9306578 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.15242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the number of countries participating in pivotal trials submitted to enable drug registration has nearly doubled over the past 25 years, there has not been a substantial increase in the diversity of clinical trial populations. In parallel, our understanding of factors that influence medicine response and variability has continued to evolve. The notion of intrinsic and extrinsic sources of variability has been embedded into different regulatory guidelines, including the recent guideline on the importance of enhancing the diversity of clinical trial populations. In addition to presenting the clinical and scientific reasons for ensuring that clinical trial populations represent the demographics of patient populations, this overview outlines the efforts of regulatory agencies, patient advocacy groups and clinical researchers to attain this goal through strategies to meet representation in recruitment targets and broaden eligibility criteria. Despite these efforts, challenges to participation in clinical trials remain, and certain groups continue to be underrepresented in development programmes. These challenges are amplified when the representativeness of specific groups may vary across countries and regions in a global clinical programme. Whilst enhanced trial diversity is a critical step towards ensuring that results will be representative of patient populations, a concerted effort is required to characterise further the factors influencing interindividual and regional differences in response for global populations. Quantitative clinical pharmacology principles should be applied to allow extrapolation of data across groups or regions as well as provide insight into the effect of patient‐specific characteristics on a medicine's dose rationale and efficacy and safety profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette S Gross
- Clinical Pharmacology Modelling & Simulation, GlaxoSmithKline R&D, Sydney, Australia.,Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anya C Harry
- Global Demographics & Diversity, Global Clinical Sciences and Delivery, GlaxoSmithKline R&D, Upper Providence, USA.,Current Address: West Pharmaceutical Services, King of Prussia, USA
| | - Christine S Clifton
- Clinical Pharmacology Modelling & Simulation, GlaxoSmithKline R&D, Sydney, Australia
| | - Oscar Della Pasqua
- Clinical Pharmacology Modelling & Simulation, GlaxoSmithKline R&D, Brentford, United Kingdom.,Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics Group, School of Pharmacy - University College London, London, UK
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23
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Spencer RN, Hecher K, Norman G, Marsal K, Deprest J, Flake A, Figueras F, Lees C, Thornton S, Beach K, Powell M, Crispi F, Diemert A, Marlow N, Peebles DM, Westgren M, Gardiner H, Gratacos E, Brodszki J, Batista A, Turier H, Patel M, Power B, Power J, Yaz G, David AL. Development of standard definitions and grading for Maternal and Fetal Adverse Event Terminology. Prenat Diagn 2021; 42:15-26. [PMID: 34550624 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Adverse event (AE) monitoring is central to assessing therapeutic safety. The lack of a comprehensive framework to define and grade maternal and fetal AEs in pregnancy trials severely limits understanding risks in pregnant women. We created AE terminology to improve safety monitoring for developing pregnancy drugs, devices and interventions. METHOD Existing severity grading for pregnant AEs and definitions/indicators of 'severe' and 'life-threatening' conditions relevant to maternal and fetal clinical trials were identified through a literature search. An international multidisciplinary group identified and filled gaps in definitions and severity grading using Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA) terms and severity grading criteria based on Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Event (CTCAE) generic structure. The draft criteria underwent two rounds of a modified Delphi process with international fetal therapy, obstetric, neonatal, industry experts, patients and patient representatives. RESULTS Fetal AEs were defined as being diagnosable in utero with potential to harm the fetus, and were integrated into MedDRA. AE severity was graded independently for the pregnant woman and her fetus. Maternal (n = 12) and fetal (n = 19) AE definitions and severity grading criteria were developed and ratified by consensus. CONCLUSIONS This Maternal and Fetal AE Terminology version 1.0 allows systematic consistent AE assessment in pregnancy trials to improve safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca N Spencer
- School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.,Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Kurt Hecher
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gill Norman
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery & Social Work, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Antenatal Results and Choices Charity, UK
| | | | - Jan Deprest
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK.,Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Alan Flake
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Francesc Figueras
- Institut D'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi ì Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain.,BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Ciínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), University of Barcelona, Spain
| | - Christoph Lees
- Queen Charlottes and Chelsea Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Kathleen Beach
- Global Health Unit, GlaxoSmithKline, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Marcy Powell
- Safety and Medical Governance, GlaxoSmithKline, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Fatima Crispi
- Institut D'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi ì Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain.,BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Ciínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), University of Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anke Diemert
- Clinic for Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Neil Marlow
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Donald M Peebles
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK.,NIHR UCLH Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | | | - Helena Gardiner
- The Fetal Center, UTHealth McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Eduard Gratacos
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Ciínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), University of Barcelona, Spain.,Center for Biomedical Research on rare Diseases (CIBERER), Institut D'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi ì Sunyer, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Albert Batista
- Institut D'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi ì Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Mehali Patel
- Bliss Charity, London, UK.,Sands Charity, London, UK
| | - Beverley Power
- CDH UK: The Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Support Charity, King's Lynn, UK
| | - James Power
- CDH UK: The Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Support Charity, King's Lynn, UK
| | - Gillian Yaz
- SHINE: Spina bifida, Hydrocephalus, Information, Networking, Equality Charity, Peterborough, UK
| | - Anna L David
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK.,NIHR UCLH Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
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Carnovale C, Parisi F, Battini V, Zavatta A, Cheli S, Cattaneo D, Gringeri M, Mosini G, Guarnieri G, Cammarata G, Cetin I. The use of biological agents in pregnant women affected by autoimmune disorders: Why we need more research of this neglected area. Pharmacol Res 2021; 171:105786. [PMID: 34314858 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Women of childbearing age are largely affected by several autoimmune disorders (the estimates range between 1.5 and 10 per 10,000). The increasing number of effective biological agents has dramatically revolutionized the treatment of these clinical conditions, ameliorating the patient's quality of life. The use of these agents by women during pregnancy is growing to ensure the disease activity control and avoid adverse health outcomes. However, for many newer biological agents, the degree of information concerning their use in pregnancy is often incomplete to perform a conclusive risk assessment on fetal and maternal health given the exclusion of this specific population from pharmacological clinical trials. More recently, the COVID-19 pandemic has confirmed the unacceptable inequities of pharmacological research and medical treatment for pregnant and lactating women, exacerbating the need for filling the gaps of quantitative and qualitative pharmacology data in this sensitive population. ere we summarize (i) what is already known about safety and effectiveness of biological agents in this understudied population (with specific focus on pregnancy-related health outcomes), and what we are going to learn from the on-going studies among pregnant women treated with biological agents; (ii) the methodological and ethical considerations that characterize the pharmacological research in pregnancy, also discussing emerging evidence on the use of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in this clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Carnovale
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences L. Sacco, "Luigi Sacco" University Hospital, Università di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Francesca Parisi
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, "V. Buzzi" Children Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Vera Battini
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences L. Sacco, "Luigi Sacco" University Hospital, Università di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Alice Zavatta
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, "V. Buzzi" Children Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Cheli
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco University Hospital, Via GB Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Dario Cattaneo
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco University Hospital, Via GB Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Michele Gringeri
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences L. Sacco, "Luigi Sacco" University Hospital, Università di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Mosini
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences L. Sacco, "Luigi Sacco" University Hospital, Università di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Greta Guarnieri
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences L. Sacco, "Luigi Sacco" University Hospital, Università di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca Cammarata
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences L. Sacco, "Luigi Sacco" University Hospital, Università di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Irene Cetin
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, "V. Buzzi" Children Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, 20141 Milan, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, "Luigi Sacco", University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy
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25
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Ren Z, Bremer AA, Pawlyk AC. Drug development research in pregnant and lactating women. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2021; 225:33-42. [PMID: 33887238 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2021.04.227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Pregnant and lactating women are considered "therapeutic orphans" because they generally have been excluded from clinical drug research and the drug development process owing to legal, ethical, and safety concerns. Most medications prescribed for pregnant and lactating women are used "off-label" because most of the clinical approved medications do not have appropriate drug labeling information for pregnant and lactating women. Medications that lack human safety data on use during pregnancy and lactation may pose potential risks for adverse effects in pregnant and lactating women as well as risks of teratogenic effects to their unborn and newborn babies. Federal policy requiring the inclusion of women in clinical research and trials led to considerable changes in research design and practice. Despite more women being included in clinical research and trials, the inclusion of pregnant and lactating women in drug research and clinical trials remains limited. A recent revision to the "Common Rule" that removed pregnant women from the classification as a "vulnerable" population may change the culture of drug research and drug development in pregnant and lactating women. This review article provides an overview of medications studied by the Obstetric-Fetal Pharmacology Research Units Network and Centers and describes the challenges in current obstetrical pharmacology research and alternative strategies for future research in precision therapeutics in pregnant and lactating women. Implementation of the recommendations of the Task Force on Research Specific to Pregnant Women and Lactating Women can provide legislative requirements and opportunities for research focused on pregnant and lactating women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoxia Ren
- Obstetric and Pediatric Pharmacology and Therapeutics Branch, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD.
| | - Andrew A Bremer
- Pediatric Growth and Nutrition Branch, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD; Pregnancy and Perinatology Branch, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD
| | - Aaron C Pawlyk
- Obstetric and Pediatric Pharmacology and Therapeutics Branch, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD
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26
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Supporting Breastfeeding in 2021 and Beyond-Lessons from the Pandemic. Pediatr Rep 2021; 13:289-301. [PMID: 34205900 PMCID: PMC8293422 DOI: 10.3390/pediatric13020037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected maternal and infant health globally both directly from infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus and indirectly from changes in health care resulting from social, economic, and health care policies unique to each country. The developing countries have to share the disproportionate burden on maternal and infant health. In this review, we discuss the uncertainties resulting from SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy, vertical transmission of the virus, and its effects on breastfeeding of the newborn. The problems of families and communities caring for mothers with COVID-19 and its impact on breastfeeding in newborns are discussed. The challenges posed by the pandemic have forced us to think and devise innovative solutions, including telemedicine help for antenatal counseling, breastfeeding education, and lactation support. Optimal utilization of resources and technology to find creative solutions at the individual and the community level will help in facilitating maternal-infant bonding soon after birth. Appropriate health care policies to support pregnant and lactating mothers will go a long way in meeting healthy child development goals.
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27
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Weld ED, Bailey TC, Waitt C. Ethical issues in therapeutic use and research in pregnant and breastfeeding women. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2021; 88:7-21. [PMID: 33990968 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.14914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnant or potentially pregnant women have historically been excluded from clinical trials of new medications. However, it is increasingly recognised that it is imperative to generate evidence from the population in whom the drugs are likely to be used to inform safe, evidence-based shared clinical decision making. Reluctance by researchers and regulators to perform such studies often relates to concerns about risk, particularly to the foetus. However, this must be offset against the risk of untreated disease or using a drug in pregnancy where safety, efficacy and dosing information are not known. This review summarises the historical perspective, and the ethical and legal frameworks that inform the conduct of such research, then highlights examples of innovative practice that have enabled high quality, ethical research to proceed to inform the evidence-based use of medication in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethel D Weld
- Divisions of Clinical Pharmacology & Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Theodore C Bailey
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Catriona Waitt
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
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Havard A, Barbieri S, Hanly M, Perez-Concha O, Tran DT, Kennedy D, Jorm LR. Medications used disproportionately during pregnancy: Priorities for research on the risks and benefits of medications when used during pregnancy. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2020; 30:53-64. [PMID: 32935407 DOI: 10.1002/pds.5131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify medications used disproportionately more or less among pregnant women relative to women of childbearing age. METHODS Medication use among pregnant women in New South Wales, Australia was identified using linked perinatal and pharmaceutical dispensing data from 2006 to 2012. Medication use in women of childbearing age (including pregnant women) was identified using pharmaceutical dispensing data for a 10% random sample of the Australian population. Pregnant social security beneficiaries (n = 111 612) were age-matched (1:3) to female social security beneficiaries in the 10% sample. For each medication, the risk it was dispensed during pregnancy relative to being dispensed during an equivalent time period among matched controls was computed. Medications were mapped to Australian pregnancy risk categories. RESULTS Of the 181 included medications, 35 were statistically significantly more commonly dispensed to pregnant women than control women. Of these, 23 are categorised as posing no increased risk to the foetus. Among medications suspected of causing harm or having insufficient safety data, the strongest associations were observed for hydralazine, ondansetron, dalteparin sodium and ranitidine. Use was less likely during pregnancy than control periods for 127 medications, with the strongest associations observed for hormonal contraceptives and progestogens. CONCLUSIONS Most medications found to be used disproportionately more by pregnant women are indicated for pregnancy-related problems. A large number of medications were used disproportionately less among pregnant women, where avoidance of some of these medications may pose a greater risk of harm. For many other medications avoided during pregnancy, current data are insufficient to inform this risk-benefit assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alys Havard
- Centre for Big Data Research in Health (CBDRH), University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sebastiano Barbieri
- Centre for Big Data Research in Health (CBDRH), University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark Hanly
- Centre for Big Data Research in Health (CBDRH), University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Oscar Perez-Concha
- Centre for Big Data Research in Health (CBDRH), University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Duong T Tran
- Centre for Big Data Research in Health (CBDRH), University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Debra Kennedy
- Royal Hospital for Women, MotherSafe, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Louisa R Jorm
- Centre for Big Data Research in Health (CBDRH), University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Moore BR, Davis TM. Updated pharmacokinetic considerations for the use of antimalarial drugs in pregnant women. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2020; 16:741-758. [PMID: 32729740 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2020.1802425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The association between pregnancy and altered drug pharmacokinetic (PK) properties is acknowledged, as is its impact on drug plasma concentrations and thus therapeutic efficacy. However, there have been few robust PK studies of antimalarial use in pregnancy. Given that inadequate dosing for prevention or treatment of malaria in pregnancy can result in negative maternal/infant outcomes, along with the potential to select for parasite drug resistance, it is imperative that reliable pregnancy-specific dosing recommendations are established. AREAS COVERED PK studies of antimalarial drugs in pregnancy. The present review summarizes the efficacy and PK properties of WHO-recommended therapies used in pregnancy, with a focus on PK studies published since 2014. EXPERT OPINION Changes in antimalarial drug disposition in pregnancy are well described, yet pregnant women continue to receive treatment regimens optimized for non-pregnant adults. Contemporary in silico modeling has recently identified a series of alternative dosing regimens that are predicted to provide optimal therapeutic efficacy for pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brioni R Moore
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin University , Bentley, Western Australia, Australia.,Medical School, University of Western Australia , Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Timothy M Davis
- Medical School, University of Western Australia , Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
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30
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Song L, Yu Z, Xu Y, Li X, Liu X, Liu D, Zhou T. Preliminary physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling of renally cleared drugs in Chinese pregnant women. Biopharm Drug Dispos 2020; 41:248-267. [PMID: 32520400 DOI: 10.1002/bdd.2243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study was to build and verify a preliminary physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model of Chinese pregnant women. The model was used to predict maternal pharmacokinetics (PK) of 6 predominantly renally cleared drugs. METHOD Based on SimCYP Caucasian pregnancy population dataset, the preliminary Chinese pregnant population was built by updating several key parameters and equations according to physiological parameters of Chinese (or Japanese) pregnant women. Drug-specific parameters of 6 renally cleared drugs were validated through PBPK modeling of Caucasian non-pregnant, Caucasian pregnant and Chinese non-pregnant population. The preliminary PBPK model of Chinese pregnant population was then developed by integrating the preliminary Chinese pregnant population and the drug-specific parameters. This model was verified by comparing the predicted maternal PK of these 6 drugs with the observed in vivo data from the literature. RESULTS The preliminary Chinese pregnant population PBPK model successfully predicted the PK of 6 target drugs for different pregnancy stages. The predicted plasma concentrations time profiles fitted the observed data well, and most predicted PK parameters were within 2-fold of observed data. CONCLUSIONS The preliminary Chinese pregnant population PBPK model provided a useful tool to predict the maternal PK of 6 predominantly renally cleared drugs in Chinese pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Song
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug Delivery System, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zhiheng Yu
- Drug Clinical Trial Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yifan Xu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xiaobei Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug Delivery System, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xuanlin Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Dongyang Liu
- Drug Clinical Trial Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Tianyan Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug Delivery System, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
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Protection by Exclusion: Another Missed Opportunity to Include Pregnant Women in Research During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic. Obstet Gynecol 2020; 136:26-28. [PMID: 32349053 PMCID: PMC7219859 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000003924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Pregnant and breastfeeding women are excluded from participating in the vast majority of clinical trials during the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a novel infectious disease that started in Wuhan, China, and has rapidly spread all across the world. With limited ability to contain the virus and relatively high transmissibility and case fatality rates, governmental institutions and pharmaceutical companies are racing to find therapeutics and vaccines that target this novel coronavirus. However, once again, pregnant and breastfeeding women are excluded from participating in clinical trials during this pandemic. This “protection by exclusion” of pregnant women from drug development and clinical therapeutic trials, even during epidemics and pandemics, is not unprecedented. Moreover, it is both misguided and not justifiable and may have excluded them from potentially beneficial interventions. This is another missed opportunity to obtain pregnancy-specific safety and efficacy data, because therapeutics developed for men and nonpregnant women may not be generalizable to pregnant women. Therefore, we recommend and urge the scientific community and professional societies that, without clear justification for exclusion, pregnant women should be given the opportunity to be included in clinical trials for COVID-19 based on the concepts of justice, equity, autonomy, and informed consent.
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Smith DD, Pippen JL, Adesomo AA, Rood KM, Landon MB, Costantine MM. Exclusion of Pregnant Women from Clinical Trials during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic: A Review of International Registries. Am J Perinatol 2020; 37:792-799. [PMID: 32428965 PMCID: PMC7356075 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1712103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pregnant women have been historically excluded from clinical trials for nonobstetric conditions, even during prior epidemics. The objective of this review is to describe the current state of research for pregnant women during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. STUDY DESIGN We conducted a search of international trial registries for trials relating to the novel coronavirus. The eligibility criteria for each trial were reviewed for inclusion/exclusion of pregnant women. Relevant data were extracted and descriptive statistics were calculated for individual and combined data. The total number of trials from each registry were compared, as well as the proportions of pregnancy-related trials within each. RESULTS Among 621,370 trials in the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry, 927 (0.15%) were COVID-19 related. Of those, the majority (52%) explicitly excluded pregnancy or failed to address pregnancy at all (46%) and only 16 (1.7%) were pregnancy specific. When categorized by region, 688 (74.2%) of COVID-19 trials were in Asia, followed by 128 (13.8%) in Europe, and 66 (7.2%) in North America. Of the COVID-19 trials which included pregnant women, only three were randomized-controlled drug trials. CONCLUSION Approximately 1.7% of current COVID-19 research is pregnancy related and the majority of trials either explicitly exclude or fail to address pregnancy. Only three interventional trials worldwide involved pregnant women. The knowledge gap concerning the safety and efficacy of interventions for COVID-19 created by the exclusion of pregnant women may ultimately harm them. While "ethical" concerns about fetal exposure are often cited, it is in fact unethical to habitually exclude pregnant women from research. KEY POINTS · Pregnancy was excluded from past pandemic research.. · Pregnancy is being excluded from COVID-19 research.. · Exclusion of pregnant women is potentially harmful..
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Affiliation(s)
- Devin D. Smith
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jessica L. Pippen
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Adebayo A. Adesomo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Kara M. Rood
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Mark B. Landon
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Maged M. Costantine
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
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McKiever M, Frey H, Costantine MM. Challenges in conducting clinical research studies in pregnant women. J Pharmacokinet Pharmacodyn 2020; 47:287-293. [PMID: 32306165 DOI: 10.1007/s10928-020-09687-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Maternal mortality and morbidity continue to rise in the United States. Despite these trends there are limited novel interventions to investigate and improve these metrics, partly due to research protocol limitations which restrict participation of pregnant women. Inclusion of pregnant women in research studies is integral to the process of obtaining important information regarding the safety and efficacy of therapeutics or interventions to improve maternal health and pregnancy outcomes. While significant changes in research practices have resulted in an increase of female participants, there remains a paucity of research trials directly targeting pregnant and lactating women. This article provides an overview of issues surrounding inclusion of pregnant or breastfeeding women in research studies, and includes historical perspectives, navigating concerns over safety profile, considerations for appropriate development, and future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique McKiever
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department Obstetrics & Gynecology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 395 W12th Avenue, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Heather Frey
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department Obstetrics & Gynecology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 395 W12th Avenue, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Maged M Costantine
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department Obstetrics & Gynecology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 395 W12th Avenue, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
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Freriksen JJM, van Seyen M, Judd A, Gibb DM, Collins IJ, Greupink R, Russel FGM, Drenth JPH, Colbers A, Burger DM. Review article: direct-acting antivirals for the treatment of HCV during pregnancy and lactation - implications for maternal dosing, foetal exposure, and safety for mother and child. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2019; 50:738-750. [PMID: 31448450 PMCID: PMC6773363 DOI: 10.1111/apt.15476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the global efforts to eradicate hepatitis C virus (HCV), treatment during pregnancy is becoming a priority for research as this, and maternal cure should reduce vertical transmission. However, as information on the efficacy and safety of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) in pregnancy is generally lacking, treatment of HCV infection during pregnancy is not currently recommended. AIM To provide an overview of current knowledge regarding maternal exposure, placental handling and safety of DAAs during pregnancy and lactation METHODS: A literature search was performed focusing on the effect of pregnancy on maternal exposure to DAAs, the placental handling of DAAs, the safety of DAAs for mother and child during pregnancy and the safety of DAAs during lactation. RESULTS Exposure to all DAAs studied is likely to be altered during pregnancy, mostly related to pregnancy-induced effects on drug absorption and metabolism. Although animal studies show that most DAAs are reported to cross the placenta and transfer into breast milk, most DAA combinations show a favourable safety profile. Because of the rapid viral decline after treatment initiation, and to avoid the critical period of organogenesis, treatment may be started at the end of the second trimester or early third trimester. CONCLUSIONS Treatment of HCV infection during pregnancy is realistic, as DAAs are highly effective and treatment duration is relatively short. There is an urgent need to study DAAs during pregnancy and lactation to contribute to the goal of HCV elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolien J M Freriksen
- Department of Pharmacy, Radboud Institute of Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Minou van Seyen
- Department of Pharmacy, Radboud Institute of Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ali Judd
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at University College London, London, UK
| | - Diana M Gibb
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at University College London, London, UK
| | - Intira J Collins
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at University College London, London, UK
| | - Rick Greupink
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Frans G M Russel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Joost P H Drenth
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Angela Colbers
- Department of Pharmacy, Radboud Institute of Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - David M Burger
- Department of Pharmacy, Radboud Institute of Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Mofenson LM, Pozniak AL, Wambui J, Raizes E, Ciaranello A, Clayden P, Ehrenkranz P, Fakoya A, Hill A, Khoo S, Mahaka I, Modi S, Moore C, Phillips A, Siberry G, Sikwese K, Thorne C, Watts HD, Doherty M, Ford NP. Optimizing responses to drug safety signals in pregnancy: the example of dolutegravir and neural tube defects. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22:e25352. [PMID: 31298496 PMCID: PMC6625340 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The unexpected identification of a neural tube defect (NTD) safety signal with preconception dolutegravir (DTG) exposure in the Botswana Tsepamo birth outcomes study brought into sharp focus the need for reliable data on use of new antiretrovirals in pregnancy, improved pharmacovigilance systems to evaluate safety of new drugs being introduced into populations including women of reproductive potential, and balanced risk-benefit messaging when a safety signal is identified. DISCUSSION The Tsepamo study NTD safety signal and accompanying regulatory responses led to uncertainty about the most appropriate approach to DTG use among women of reproductive potential, affecting global DTG roll-out plans, and limiting DTG use in adolescent girls and women. It also revealed a tension between a public health approach to antiretroviral treatment (ART) and individual choice, and highlighted difficulties interpreting and messaging an unexpected safety signal with uncertainty about risk. This difficulty was compounded by the lack of high-quality data on pregnancy outcomes from women receiving ART outside the Tsepamo surveillance sites and countries other than Botswana, resulting in a prolonged period of uncertainty while data on additional exposures are evaluated to refute or confirm the initial safety signal. We discuss principles for evaluating and introducing new drugs in the general population that would ensure collection of appropriate data to inform drug safety in adolescent girls and women of reproductive potential and minimize confusion about drug use in this population when a safety signal is identified. CONCLUSIONS The response to a signal suggesting a possible safety risk for a drug used in pregnancy or among women who may become pregnant needs to be rapid and comprehensive. It requires the existence of appropriately designed surveillance systems with broad population coverage; data analyses that examine risk-benefit trade-offs in a variety of contexts; guidance to transform this risk-benefit balance into effective and agreed-upon policy; involvement of the affected community and other key stakeholders; and a communication plan for all levels of knowledge and complexity. Implementation of this proposed framework for responding to safety signals is needed to ensure that any drug used in pregnancy can be rapidly and appropriately evaluated should a serious safety alert arise.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anton L Pozniak
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation TrustLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Jacque Wambui
- National Empowerment Network of people living with HIV/AIDS in Kenya (NEPHAK)NairobiKenya
| | - Elliot Raizes
- Centers for Disease Control and PreventionAtlantaGAUSA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Surbhi Modi
- Centers for Disease Control and PreventionAtlantaGAUSA
| | - Cynthia Moore
- Centers for Disease Control and PreventionAtlantaGAUSA
| | | | | | - Kenly Sikwese
- African Community Advisory Board (AFROCAB)LuskaZambia
| | - Claire Thorne
- University College London Institute of Child HealthLondonUK
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Franconi F, Campesi I, Colombo D, Antonini P. Sex-Gender Variable: Methodological Recommendations for Increasing Scientific Value of Clinical Studies. Cells 2019; 8:E476. [PMID: 31109006 PMCID: PMC6562815 DOI: 10.3390/cells8050476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a clear sex-gender gap in the prevention and occurrence of diseases, and in the outcomes and treatments, which is relevant to women in the majority of cases. Attitudes concerning the enrollment of women in randomized clinical trials have changed over recent years. Despite this change, a gap still exists. This gap is linked to biological factors (sex) and psycho-social, cultural, and environmental factors (gender). These multidimensional, entangled, and interactive factors may influence the pharmacological response. Despite the fact that regulatory authorities recognize the importance of sex and gender, there is a paucity of research focusing on the racial/ethnic, socio-economic, psycho-social, and environmental factors that perpetuate disparities. Research and clinical practice must incorporate all of these factors to arrive at an intersectional and system-scenario perspective. We advocate for scientifically rigorous evaluations of the interplay between sex and gender as key factors in performing clinical trials, which are more adherent to real-life. This review proposes a set of 12 rules to improve clinical research for integrating sex-gender into clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Franconi
- Laboratory of Sex-gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, 07100 Sassari, Italy.
| | - Ilaria Campesi
- Laboratory of Sex-gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, 07100 Sassari, Italy.
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università degli Studi di Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy.
| | - Delia Colombo
- Value and Access Head, Novartis Italia, 21040 Origgio, Italy.
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Sujan AC, Öberg AS, Quinn PD, D’Onofrio BM. Annual Research Review: Maternal antidepressant use during pregnancy and offspring neurodevelopmental problems - a critical review and recommendations for future research. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2019; 60:356-376. [PMID: 30515808 PMCID: PMC6438736 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Children of women treated with antidepressants during pregnancy are more likely to develop neurodevelopmental problems than are unexposed children. Associations between prenatal antidepressant exposure and neurodevelopmental problems could reflect a causal effect or could be partially or fully explained by other factors that differ between exposed and unexposed offspring, including having mothers with conditions requiring antidepressant treatment (e.g. depression), environmental risk factors, and/or genetic risk factors shared across disorders. This translational review aims to provide a brief overview of findings from rodent experiments and critically evaluate observational studies in humans to assess the extent to which associations between prenatal antidepressant exposure and neurodevelopmental problems are due to causal mechanisms versus other influences. We focus our review on two important neurodevelopmental outcomes - autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In general, rodent studies have reported adverse effects of perinatal antidepressant exposure on neurodevelopment. Between-species differences raise questions about the generalizability of these findings to humans. Indeed, converging evidence from studies using multiple designs and approaches suggest that observed associations between prenatal antidepressant exposure and neurodevelopmental problems in humans are largely due to confounding factors. We also provide specific recommendations for future research. Animal research should explicitly evaluate the impact of timing of exposure and dosage of medications, as well as better map outcome measures in rodents to human neurodevelopmental problems. Observational studies should investigate specific confounding factors, specific antidepressant drugs and classes, the potential impact of timing of exposure, and a wider range of other potential offspring outcomes. The findings summarized in this review may help women and their doctors make informed decisions about antidepressant use during pregnancy by providing reassurance that use of these medications during pregnancy is unlikely to substantially increase the risk of ASD and ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha C. Sujan
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - A. Sara Öberg
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Patrick D. Quinn
- Department of Applied Health Science, School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Brian M. D’Onofrio
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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de Waard M, Blomjous BS, Hol MLF, Sie SD, Corpeleijn WE, van Goudoever JHB, van Weissenbruch MM. Medication Use During Pregnancy and Lactation in a Dutch Population. J Hum Lact 2019; 35:154-164. [PMID: 29969343 DOI: 10.1177/0890334418775630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Medication use during pregnancy and lactation can be unavoidable, but knowledge on safety for the fetus or breastfed infant is limited among patients and healthcare providers. RESEARCH AIM: This study aimed to determine (a) the prevalence of medication use in pregnant and lactating women in a tertiary academic center, (b) the types and safety of these medicines, and (c) the influence of medication use on initiation of breastfeeding. METHODS: This study used a cross-sectional survey among women ( N = 292) who underwent high-risk or low-risk deliveries. Data about their use of prescribed, over-the-counter, and homeopathic medication during pregnancy were obtained through a structured interview, followed by a questionnaire during lactation. Safety was classified according to the risk classification system from the Dutch Teratological Information Service. RESULTS: Overall, 95.5% of participants used medication. One third of participants used at least one medicine with an unknown risk for the fetus. Teratogenic medication was used by 6.5% of participants, whereas 29.5% used medication with a (suspected) pharmacological effect on the fetus. Lactation was initiated by 258 (88.7%) participants, of which 84.2% used medication while breastfeeding. In 3.8% of participants, this medication was classified unsafe, but none used medication with an unknown risk. One-third of the nonlactating participants decided not to initiate breastfeeding because of medication use. In 70% of participants, this decision was appropriate. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of overall use of medication in Dutch pregnant and lactating women admitted to a tertiary center was high. There is an urgent need for pharmacometric studies for determination of the safe use of the most frequently used medicines during pregnancy or lactation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marita de Waard
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Birgit S Blomjous
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marinka L F Hol
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,2 Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sintha D Sie
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Willemijn E Corpeleijn
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,3 Department of Pediatrics, Emma Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Johannes Hans B van Goudoever
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,3 Department of Pediatrics, Emma Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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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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Use of Therapeutics in Pregnancy and Lactation. Pharm Res 2018; 35:107. [PMID: 29572667 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-018-2390-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
This theme issue of Pharmaceutical Research is dedicated to drug research and therapy in pregnant and breastfeeding woman. Enthusiasm for studying drug safety and toxicity in these patients (and in their children) has risen over the past decade. Yet, the accumulation of data is slow. A combined effort of industry, regulators, academia and clinicians can promote the treatment of these populations, as discussed in detail in this issue.
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Illamola SM, Bucci‐Rechtweg C, Costantine MM, Tsilou E, Sherwin CM, Zajicek A. Inclusion of pregnant and breastfeeding women in research - efforts and initiatives. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2018; 84:215-222. [PMID: 28925019 PMCID: PMC5777434 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.13438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 09/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnant and breastfeeding women have been rendered therapeutic orphans as they have been historically excluded from clinical trials. Labelling for most approved drugs does not provide information about safety and efficacy during pregnancy. This lack of data is mainly due to ethico-legal challenges that have remained entrenched in the post-diethylstilbestrol and thalidomide era, and that have led to pregnancy being viewed in the clinical trial setting primarily through a pharmacovigilance lens. Policy considerations that encourage and/or require the inclusion of pregnant or lactating women in clinical trials may address the current lack of available information. However, there are additional pragmatic strategies, such the employment of pharmacometric tools and the introduction of innovative clinical trial designs, which could improve knowledge about the safety and efficacy of medication use during pregnancy and lactation. This paper provides a broad overview of the pharmacoepidemiology of drugs used during pregnancy and lactation, and offers recommendations for regulators and researchers in academia and industry to increase the available pharmacokinetic and -dynamic understanding of medication use in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sílvia M. Illamola
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of PediatricsUniversity of Utah School of MedicineSalt Lake CityUTUSA
| | - Christina Bucci‐Rechtweg
- Pediatric & Maternal Health Policy, Global Drug Regulatory AffairsNovartis Pharmaceuticals CorporationEast HanoverNew JerseyUSA
| | - Maged M. Costantine
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal‐Fetal MedicineUniversity of Texas Medical BranchGalvestonTXUSA
| | - Ekaterini Tsilou
- Obstetric and Pediatric Pharmacology and Therapeutics Branch at the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human DevelopmentBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Catherine M. Sherwin
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of PediatricsUniversity of Utah School of MedicineSalt Lake CityUTUSA
- Department of PharmacotherapyUniversity of Utah College of PharmacySalt Lake CityUTUSA
| | - Anne Zajicek
- Obstetric and Pediatric Pharmacology and Therapeutics Branch at the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human DevelopmentBethesdaMDUSA
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