title: Antiarrhythmic drugs in pregnancy.
abstract: During pregnancy a number of rhythm disturbances can occur in both the mother and fetus; these may range from benign ectopy to life-threatening arrhythmias. With a clear understanding of the maternal hemodynamic changes associated with pregnancy, and the appropriate antiarrhythmic therapies available, almost all such cases can be treated successfully. Although no drug is completely safe, most are well tolerated and can be given with relatively low risk. Drug therapy should be avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy if possible and drugs with the longest record of safety should be used as first-line therapy. Conservative therapies should be used when appropriate. Several drug options exist for most maternal and fetal arrhythmias.
authors: The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA.
authors: J A
authors: JA
authors: Joglar
authors: R L
authors: RL
authors: Page
mesh_terms: D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000638:Amiodarone / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001145:Arrhythmias, Cardiac / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005260:Female; D006329:Heart Conduction System / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D026902:Potassium Channel Blockers; D011247:Pregnancy; D011249:Pregnancy Complications, Cardiovascular / Q000188:drug therapy*; D026941:Sodium Channel Blockers
chemical_list: D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents; D026902:Potassium Channel Blockers; D026941:Sodium Channel Blockers; D000638:Amiodarone