A small-to-moderate risk of birth defects has been seen in the prenatal use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), according to a new study.
NSAIDs are used by millions for headaches, minor pain, arthritis, lowering fever, and for reducing swelling and include nonprescription aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve); prescription medications include COX-2 inhibitors such as Celebrex (celecoxib).
Some moderate associations between NSAIDs and specific birth defects were seen, said the researchers. The research was led by Rohini Hernandez, PhD, from the Center for Birth Defects Research and Prevention at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health in Boston, said MedScape. Pain relievers that were problematic in some cases included ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen.
These NSAIDs were linked, to some degree, to increased risks for oral clefts, neural tube defects, anophthalmia, microphthalmia, pulmonary valve stenosis, amniotic band syndrome, limb body wall defects, and transverse limb deficiencies, said MedScape.