last updated 17-03-2024

Pregnancy and drug therapy

Pregnancy

Unfortunately not all pregnancies are without complications; therefore many different aspects need to be considered. In the first place, pregnant women undergo several changes in the body, which have effects on the pharmacokinetic characteristics of drugs. The presence of the placenta, foetus and extra water influence the mother's absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination of drugs.

 

Secondly, the drugs given to treat the mother can also reach the foetus. Various drugs are harmful for the foetal development and can cause malformations or teratogenic effects.

This section deals with pharmacological treatment of complications during pregnancy. For a review of pharmacokinetic changes during pregnancy check the section pregnancy and toxicology.

1

In general, what type of drugs can easily reach the foetus during pregnancy?