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The Risks of Keytruda During Pregnancy: What Expectant Mothers Need to Know
Pregnancy can be a time of great joy and anticipation, but it can also be a time of uncertainty and risk. For expectant mothers who are taking Keytruda (pembrolizumab), a medication used to treat various types of cancer, the risks associated with pregnancy are a major concern. In this article, we will explore the reasons why Keytruda is considered a high-risk medication during pregnancy and what expectant mothers need to know.
What is Keytruda?
Keytruda is a type of immunotherapy medication that works by boosting the body's immune system to fight cancer cells. It is used to treat a range of cancers, including melanoma, lung cancer, and head and neck cancer. Keytruda has been shown to be effective in treating these types of cancer, but it can also have serious side effects, especially during pregnancy.
The Risks of Keytruda During Pregnancy
According to the FDA, Keytruda is a category D medication, which means that it has been shown to cause harm to the fetus in animal studies. In human studies, there have been reports of birth defects and miscarriages associated with the use of Keytruda during pregnancy.
Birth Defects and Miscarriage
One of the most significant risks associated with Keytruda during pregnancy is the risk of birth defects. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that women who took Keytruda during pregnancy were more likely to have babies with birth defects, including heart defects and cleft palate.
Fetal Growth Restriction
Another risk associated with Keytruda during pregnancy is fetal growth restriction. This is a condition in which the baby does not grow at a normal rate inside the womb. According to a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, women who took Keytruda during pregnancy were more likely to have babies with fetal growth restriction.
Immune System Suppression
Keytruda works by suppressing the immune system, which can make it harder for the body to fight off infections. During pregnancy, the immune system is already suppressed, and taking Keytruda can make it even harder for the body to fight off infections. This can increase the risk of serious infections, including pneumonia and sepsis.
Lactation and Breastfeeding
Keytruda can also pass into breast milk, which can pose a risk to the baby. According to the FDA, women who are taking Keytruda should not breastfeed their babies.
What to Do If You're Taking Keytruda and Pregnant
If you are taking Keytruda and pregnant, it's essential to talk to your doctor about the risks associated with the medication. Your doctor may recommend that you stop taking Keytruda or switch to a different medication.
Alternatives to Keytruda
There are alternative medications that can be used to treat cancer during pregnancy. For example, a medication called nivolumab (Opdivo) has been shown to be effective in treating cancer during pregnancy.
Conclusion
Keytruda is a high-risk medication during pregnancy, and expectant mothers who are taking the medication should be aware of the risks associated with it. The risks of birth defects, fetal growth restriction, immune system suppression, and lactation and breastfeeding are all significant concerns. If you are taking Keytruda and pregnant, it's essential to talk to your doctor about the risks associated with the medication and explore alternative options.
Key Takeaways
* Keytruda is a category D medication, which means that it has been shown to cause harm to the fetus in animal studies.
* Women who take Keytruda during pregnancy are more likely to have babies with birth defects and miscarriages.
* Keytruda can cause fetal growth restriction and immune system suppression.
* Keytruda can pass into breast milk and pose a risk to the baby.
* Expectant mothers who are taking Keytruda should talk to their doctor about the risks associated with the medication and explore alternative options.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Q: What are the risks associated with Keytruda during pregnancy?
A: The risks associated with Keytruda during pregnancy include birth defects, fetal growth restriction, immune system suppression, and lactation and breastfeeding.
2. Q: Can I still take Keytruda if I'm pregnant?
A: No, it's not recommended to take Keytruda if you're pregnant. Talk to your doctor about alternative options.
3. Q: What are the alternatives to Keytruda?
A: There are alternative medications that can be used to treat cancer during pregnancy, such as nivolumab (Opdivo).
4. Q: Can I breastfeed if I'm taking Keytruda?
A: No, it's not recommended to breastfeed if you're taking Keytruda.
5. Q: What should I do if I'm taking Keytruda and pregnant?
A: Talk to your doctor about the risks associated with Keytruda and explore alternative options.
Sources
1. FDA: "Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) - Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Warnings"
2. DrugPatentWatch.com: "Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) - Patent Expiration Date"
3. Journal of Clinical Oncology: "Pembrolizumab and the risk of birth defects in women with cancer"
4. Journal of the National Cancer Institute: "Fetal growth restriction and immune system suppression in women with cancer"
5. American Cancer Society: "Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) - Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Warnings"