Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Journal of Literature Pharmacy Sciences, cilt.7, sa.3, ss.194-204, 2018 (Hakemli Dergi)
Pregnancy is one of the main clinical situations where principles of rational use of
drugs need to be practiced precisely. In a properly functioning healthcare system, pharmacist constitutes a primary source to reach information on drugs. This mission becomes more critical in special populations like pregnant women. Many pregnant women are estimated to use drugs
unintentionally/unconsciously. Moreover, as half of the pregnancies are not planned, the key role
of the pharmacist is increased considering avoidance of arbitrary drug use or possible drug-related
teratogenicity. Whether planned or not, it may not be possible to thoroughly avoid drug exposure
during pregnancy. People with chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma, hypertension often
have to continue medical treatment despite pregnancy. In addition, certain acute diseases or symptoms of the mother, such as urinary infection, nausea/vomiting, pain may require pharmacological
therapy. In early periods, folic acid and some other vitamins/minerals are recommended to be administered under supervision. In special conditions, drugs for induction/threatened abortion may
also be used before and during pregnancy. Avoiding pharmacotherapy without a risk-benefit assessment in pregnancy can lead to more dramatic health problems. This review focuses on the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic changes in pregnancy, their implications on drug use, and the
relationship between drug-related risks and gestational age. Drugs that are commonly used in pregnancy and risks of drugs known to be contraindicated or unintentionally used are also discussed.
Therefore, aiming to introduce basic background knowledge to pharmacists, this paper is expected
to contribute to dissemination of rational use of drug in pregnancy