When a woman is pregnant, she is no longer only responsible for her own life, but must also consider the health and well-being of her unborn fetus, as well. In addition to not drinking or smoking cigarettes while pregnant, women should also be aware of the potential dangers within their prescription medications. Because these drugs are absorbed in the body, there is a likely chance that the medicine can get passed along to the baby, as well.

Prescriptions are generally strong drugs that can have a very positive effect on an ill person, but a detrimental effect to a fetus. Because of the variability of the side effects of these kinds of medicines, it is beneficial to consult with your doctor before consuming anything.

Doctors and nurses are responsible for educating themselves on drug reactions through the use of medicine labels and packages, research journals and, of course, medical school textbooks. It is the medical professionals job to inform the patient of the risks associated with certain medications and provide clear, accurate advice.

In relating to pregnancy, doctors use a classification system to determine the potential harm in any given drug. Category X is the most dangerous classification and includes drugs like Accutane (used to treat cystic acne) and Thalomid (for a type of skin disease). Other dangerous drugs are classified as Category D and include Paxil (depression), Lithium (bipolar disorder), Dialntin (for seizures) and certain cancer chemotherapy treatments. If you tell your doctor you are currently taking any of these medications, he or she should advise you of the risks associated with your unborn child and/or should order you stop taking the drug in question.

Doctors should also advise patients of over-the-counter medicine dangers. Certain drugs with NSAIDs can cause blood flow issues to the child. Nicotine patches can be harmful, as well.

If you are pregnant and your doctor did not convey accurate, clear advice regarding the hazards of these drugs and you or your baby is injured as a result, you may be able to bring the case to court to gain financial compensation for your suffering. To see if you have a viable case against your healthcare professional, contact an experienced birth injury attorney today.

If you or someone you love would like to see legal representation regarding prescription drug intake during pregnancy, visit the web site of the Philadelphia birth injury lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. today.