Protecting the embryo from X-rated drugs

Article Abstract:

Further precautions need to be in place to restrict the use of isotretinoin and other teratogenic drugs. Teratogens cause physical abnormalities in the developing fetus. Although recent data show that women comply with warnings by avoiding pregnancy during isotretinoin therapy, several concerns remain. Not all women may choose safe contraception methods, such as intrauterine devices. Also, practitioners may prescribe isotretinoin too frequently. Many drugs may have teratogenic features not yet identified. Research during pregnancy is uncommon while animal research provides only partial answers. When a safe drug alternative is not available to a patient, conflicts of health priority may arise during pregnancy. More therapeutic options in the future may eliminate the need for teratogenic drugs altogether.

Drugs, Laws, regulations and rules, Causes of, Birth defects, Isotretinoin, Teratogenic agents

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Fortification of foods with folic acid -- how much is enough?

Article Abstract:

It is probably not necessary to increase the fortification of enriched grain products with folic acid. In 1996, the FDA required all manufacturers of enriched cereal grain products to add 140 micrograms of folic acid for every 100 grams of grain. This was done to ensure that all women of reproductive age received enough folic acid to prevent neural tube defects in their baby if they became pregnant. However, it also exposes everyone else to increased levels of dietary folic acid. No one knows what effect this will have on the health of the population.

Folic acid, Breakfast cereals, Enriched foods, Grain products, Enriched cereal products

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Cocaine, smoking, and spontaneous abortion

Article Abstract:

There is not enough evidence to link cocaine use during pregnancy to miscarriage. A 1999 study found that pregnant women whose hair samples tested positive for cocaine were 40% more likely to miscarry. However, many had no evidence of cocaine in their blood samples. Since cocaine in hair may indicate past use, it is not possible to say whether the cocaine was responsible for the miscarriage. However, the study also found that women with evidence of nicotine exposure in their blood samples were about twice as likely to miscarry.

Risk factors, Smoking, Miscarriage, Cocaine

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