Which appetite suppressant should be avoided before and during pregnancy?

Which appetite suppressant should be avoided before and during pregnancy?

• A. Orlistat
• B. Topiramate
• C. Lorcaserin
• D. Phentermine

Answer: (B)

Topiramate is a known teratogen, meaning it can cause birth defects when taken during pregnancy. It has been linked to neural tube defects and orofacial clefts in the developing fetus. Because the developing baby is very vulnerable to medications that can disrupt formation of the brain and face, this drug should be avoided when planning pregnancy and throughout pregnancy. Orlistat mainly acts in the gut and has limited fetal exposure, so it’s not as clearly associated with birth defects, though data are limited. Lorcaserin safety in pregnancy isn’t well established, so it’s not considered safe by default. Phentermine is a stimulant with some pregnancy safety concerns, but it doesn’t have the same well-documented teratogenic signal as topiramate. In pregnancy, prioritizing drugs with proven safety is crucial, so avoiding topiramate is the prudent choice.

Topiramate is a known teratogen, meaning it can cause birth defects when taken during pregnancy. It has been linked to neural tube defects and orofacial clefts in the developing fetus. Because the developing baby is very vulnerable to medications that can disrupt formation of the brain and face, this drug should be avoided when planning pregnancy and throughout pregnancy.

Orlistat mainly acts in the gut and has limited fetal exposure, so it’s not as clearly associated with birth defects, though data are limited. Lorcaserin safety in pregnancy isn’t well established, so it’s not considered safe by default. Phentermine is a stimulant with some pregnancy safety concerns, but it doesn’t have the same well-documented teratogenic signal as topiramate. In pregnancy, prioritizing drugs with proven safety is crucial, so avoiding topiramate is the prudent choice.