Which types of medications are commonly considered teratogenic during pregnancy?

Teratogenic medications are those that can cause developmental malformations or harm to a developing fetus when taken during pregnancy. ACE inhibitors, commonly prescribed for hypertension and heart failure, have been shown to lead to significant fetal complications, particularly when used in the second and third trimesters. These can include issues such as renal dysfunction, oligohydramnios, and fetal skull abnormalities.

Certain antiepileptics, like valproate and phenytoin, are also known to affect fetal development, leading to conditions such as fetal hydantoin syndrome and other neural tube defects. The use of these medications during pregnancy requires careful consideration, as they pose a substantial risk to fetal health.

In contrast, while some antibiotics and antihistamines may have specific risks, they are generally not classified as highly teratogenic. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can have concerns regarding usage, especially in late pregnancy due to potential effects on the fetal cardiovascular system, but they are not consistently categorized as teratogenic across all stages of pregnancy. Diuretics and beta-blockers may have some effects, but they are not primarily recognized for their teratogenic risks compared to ACE inhibitors and certain antiepileptics.