Medication Use During Pregnancy and Lactation: Safety, Pharmacology, and Clinical Considerations

Abstract:Medication use during pregnancy and lactation presents unique challenges due to the potential effects on fetal and neonatal development. Physiological changes during pregnancy can alter drug pharmacokinetics, while certain medications may cross the placenta or be excreted in breast milk, posing risks to the fetus or infant. This review summarizes current evidence on the safety and efficacy of commonly prescribed medications in pregnant and lactating women, highlighting strategies for minimizing adverse outcomes. Clinical guidelines, risk assessment tools, and specialized resources such as LactMed® are discussed to support evidence-based decision-making. Understanding drug safety in these populations is critical for optimizing maternal health while protecting fetal and infant well-being.摘要：妊娠期与哺乳期的药物使用存在独特挑战，因其可能对胎儿及新生儿的发育造成潜在影响。妊娠期发生的生理变化可改变药物代谢动力学特性，而部分药物可透过胎盘屏障或经母乳排泄，从而对胎儿或婴儿构成风险。本综述总结了目前针对妊娠期及哺乳期女性常用处方药物的安全性与有效性相关研究证据，并重点阐述了降低不良母婴结局风险的干预策略。本文还讨论了临床指南、风险评估工具以及LactMed®等专业资源，以助力循证决策的开展。充分了解此类人群的药物安全性信息，对于优化孕产妇健康、同时保障胎儿与婴儿的健康福祉至关重要。