What is a primary consideration when prescribing medication to pregnant women?

The primary consideration when prescribing medication to pregnant women is the potential for teratogenic effects. During pregnancy, the developing fetus is particularly vulnerable to the effects of drugs due to the rapid cell division and differentiation occurring in early stages of development. Certain medications can interfere with these processes and lead to congenital abnormalities or other harmful effects. This consideration is crucial because the safety of both the mother and the fetus must be balanced when deciding on a course of treatment.

Teratogenicity refers to the capability of a substance to cause developmental malformations. Many medications have been studied for their risks during pregnancy, and it is essential for healthcare providers to evaluate these risks carefully to avoid any adverse outcomes. While other factors such as medication interactions, cost, and dosing complexity are important in the overall management of a patient's care, the immediate concern for a pregnant woman and her healthcare provider is the safety profile of any prescribed medications in relation to potential teratogenic effects.