J Pharm Pharmacogn Res 2(Suppl. 1): S19, 2014
Special supplement with the abstract book of LATINFARMA 2013
Oral Communication
CO 036: DRUG USE IN PREGNANT WOMEN
Viroga S, Ramos C, Artagaveytia P, Speranza N, Tamosiunas G.
Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, UdelaR, Uruguay.Abstract
Introduction: There are few local data on drug use during pregnancy in our country. The selection of drugs in pregnancy must be based on efficacy and safety, taking into account the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic changes that occur during pregnancy and the potential harm to the fetus.
Objective: To study the drug consumption profile in pregnant women in a maternal referential hospital in Uruguay.
Methods: Descriptional study, survey conducted by students of the College of Midwives from July to November 2010. The variables considered were: medications used, frequency of use of medications, source of prescription, teratogenic risk and use of abuse substances.
Results: 126 pregnant women (96.9%) used medications during their pregnancy. 364 drugs were used, including 64 active principles. The average use of drugs was 2.8 per woman. The most used drugs were iron, folic acid and dexamethasone. The 11.5% of the drugs were self prescribed (93% were NSAIDs). 37% of pregnant women consumed some abuse substance and 43% of those were consumed during the first trimester. Most used drugs corresponded to the B FDA category.
Conclusions: Despite popular belief, there is a high percentage of pregnant women using drugs. Contrary to the idea that drugs should not be used in pregnant women, there are certain drugs approved for its use in this population. The high percentage use of abuse substances, especially during the first trimester, is a concerning situation. The sample included in our study is not representative of the general population, but it allowed a situational assessment, pharmacoepidemiology important for our country. A future study with a larger number of patients will be needed. This study also resulted in the creation of research lines and allowed students to be involved in investigational activities.