Is warfarin teratogenic in pregnancy?

A case is reported of a baby born with congenital abnormalities due to maternal ingestion of warfarin during pregnancy. Warfarin is known to be teratogenic, producing characteristic abnormalities, namely a hypoplastic nose, stippled epiphyses, and skeletal abnormalities.

How does warfarin affect pregnancy?

Unfortunately, warfarin crosses the placenta and is associated with increased rates of fetal loss. Warfarin is also associated with teratogenic lesions if used in the first trimester and the use later in gestation carries the risk of fetal haemorrhagic complications and maternal haemorrhage during labour.

Is warfarin contraindicated in pregnancy?

Answer: If possible, warfarin therapy should be avoided during pregnancy. If warfarin therapy is essential, it should be avoided at least during the first trimester (because of teratogenicity) and from about 2 to 4 weeks before delivery to reduce risk of hemorrhagic complications.

What adverse effect can be seen in the fetus when the mother takes warfarin especially in the first Trimest?

Warfarin crosses the placenta during pregnancy and has the potential to cause teratogenesis and bleeding in the fetus. Warfarin and other coumarin derivatives cause an embryopathy commonly termed fetal warfarin syndrome (FWS).

Is it safe to take warfarin during pregnancy?

Warfarin Pregnancy Warnings. Use is contraindicated. AU TGA pregnancy category: D. US FDA pregnancy category: Not assigned. Risk Summary: Use is contraindicated in pregnant women except those with mechanical heart valves, who are at high risk of thromboembolism, and for whom the benefits of this drug may outweigh the risks. Comments:

Where does the teratogenic effect of warfarin occur?

The teratogenic effect may occur from exposure in both the embryonic and fetal period probably secondary to destruction of structures from hemorrhage into the organs secondary to vitamin K deficiency that is induced by warfarin (3). Risk of developing fetal warfarin syndrome:

What are the risks of fetal warfarin syndrome?

Risk of developing fetal warfarin syndrome: Two thirds will have a normal outcome. One third will have either fetal warfarin syndrome or spontaneous abortion. Depressed nasal bridge and nasal hypoplasia. Stippling of non calcified epiphyses.

Is there a link between pregnancy and teratogens?

Pregnancy and Teratogens Teratogens are drugs, chemicals, or even infections that can cause abnormal fetal development. There are billions of potential teratogens, but only a few agents are proven to have teratogenic effects. These effects can result in a baby being born with a birth defect.