Exposure to non-opioid analgesics during pregnancy and the risk of adverse drug reactions

Abstract

Therapeutic options are limited during pregnancy due to the safety of the foetus. Non-opioid analgesics (NOA) are among the most commonly prescribed medicaments by physicians. Many of them are available over-the-counter (OTC) without prescription and in non-pharmacy sales such as hypermarkets and petrol stations. There has been a steady increase in their sales due to their high availability, the spread of self-medication and advertising. They are used for pain of various origins, inflammatory diseases, colds and flu. Monitoring the safety of therapy with these drugs is particularly important in the population of pregnant women, due to their high popularity and the different pharmacokinetics during pregnancy. The number of clinical studies on pregnant women is very limited, so it is important to raise awareness and knowledge of the adverse effects (ADR) on the developing foetus. The aim of this study was to analyse and evaluate the safety of non-opioid analgesics in a population of pregnant women based on the results of an anonymous validated survey. It will increase the awareness and enable women to make informed decisions and consider the potential risks associated with treating or not treating pain during pregnancy and breastfeeding.