Wednesday September 22, 1999 - Question 5

Several reference books and databases describing the safety and toxicity of medications used during pregnancy exist.  Which statement describing teratogenicity literature is true?

A. There are few well-controlled studies of drug use in pregnancy and much of the literature is anecdotal making interpretation difficult.

B. Most data relating to medication use during pregnancy is derived from well done prospective clinical trials.

C. Reports that a medication has been safely used in 2-3 pregnancies means it will be safe in all pregnancies.

D. Animal data can be extrapolated directly to humans.

E. Potential teratogenic effects of a medication should not be reported to MEDWATCH.  They should be reported to the American Academy of Obstetrics and Gynecology so an immediate warning can be sent out to all OB/GYNs.
 

Discussion