Journal Article Summary
The article reviews the use of long-acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotics during pregnancy, focusing on their safety and outcomes for both mothers and infants. This topic is important because women with severe psychotic disorders are at a higher risk of relapse during pregnancy, which can pose significant risks to both the mother and the developing fetus. Despite the widespread use of LAI antipsychotics to help manage these conditions, there is limited high-quality research on their safety during pregnancy, making this review necessary to inform clinical practices.
The authors conducted a literature search and included 19 publications that reported on 74 women and 77 pregnancies involving LAI antipsychotic use. The majority of these cases involved second-generation LAI antipsychotics, and about 64% of the women had satisfactory control of their symptoms. While some adverse outcomes were reported, such as gestational diabetes, stillbirth, and preterm birth, these were relatively rare, and no long-term developmental issues in infants were noted. Overall, the findings suggest that LAI antipsychotics may be used with caution during pregnancy, but more robust studies are needed to draw definitive conclusions.
The review highlights several limitations, including the small sample size and the lack of control groups in the studies analyzed, which makes it difficult to generalize the findings. Patients should be aware that while the current data appears reassuring, there are still risks associated with LAI antipsychotic use during pregnancy. It is crucial for patients to discuss their treatment options with healthcare professionals, considering their individual circumstances, medical history, and the potential risks and benefits of continuing or switching medications during pregnancy.
Medical Safety Note
This journal article summary is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
Article Cited
- Pejčić Ana V, Stefanović Srdjan M, Milosavljević Miloš N, Janjić Vladimir S, Folić Marko M, Folić Nevena D, Milosavljević Jovana Z. Outcomes of long-acting injectable antipsychotics use in pregnancy: A literature review. World Journal of Psychiatry 2024. DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v14.i4.582. PMID: 38659600. PMCID: PMC11036459.
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