Therapeutic considerations pregnancy & lactation Flashcards
What are the key considerations when administering drugs to pregnant animals?
Effect on pregnancy – Can drug disrupt gestation?
Effect on fetus – Risk of teratogenesis or developmental issues
Effect at birth – Can drug cause complications during parturition?
Label indication – Is drug licensed for use in pregnancy?
Risk-benefit balance – Weigh maternal treatment needs vs. fetal harm
Why is it difficult to predict plasma drug levels in pregnancy?
Absorption: Reduced abdominal space, increased gastric pH
Distribution: Increased plasma volume; high Vd drugs cross placenta more
Metabolism: Altered due to increased detoxification needs
Excretion: Changes in dam’s acid-base balance affect drug clearance
What determines if a drug crosses the placenta?
If drug is orally absorbed, it likely crosses placenta
Lipophilic drugs cross more easily
Basic drugs can be trapped in fetal compartment (ion trapping)
