Over Half of Teratology Counseling Patients Had Category D or X Exposure
This nine-year single-center descriptive study shows how polypharmacy, chronic disease, and hormonal products shape high-risk medication exposure among pregnant women referred for teratogenic risk counseling, informing outpatient medication review.
📅 Journal publication: Oct 9, 2026·Last updated: Oct 29, 2026
pregnancyteratology information servicepolypharmacyFDA pregnancy categoriescategory Dcategory Xhormonal preparationsNSAIDsretrospective descriptive studymedication reviewpreconception counselingAmbulatory Care / MTM
Background Information
High-risk medication exposure common in pregnant women seeking counseling.
Managing medication use in pregnancy is crucial to prevent fetal risks and ensure maternal health. 57.3% of pregnant women were exposed to at least one category D or X medication, with polypharmacy associated with higher risk. The study underscores the need for thorough medication reviews and risk assessments for pregnant patients, particularly in those with polypharmacy. Teratology Information Services are vital for evidence-based medication counseling during pregnancy.
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Authors:Sevdar Çeçen G, Çetinkaya Demir B, Özdemir TH, Çavun S, Yılmaz MS
Citation:Sevdar Çeçen G, Çetinkaya Demir B, Özdemir TH, et al. Medication Use Patterns and Exposure to High-Risk Medications Among Pregnant Women Seeking Counseling from a Teratology Information Service: A Nine-Year Retrospective Study. Journal of clinical medicine. 2026;15(20). doi:10.3390/jcm15207800