Psoriasis and Pregnancy: Medicines and Treatments to Avoid

Pregnancy is never as simple as a walk in a park. Every pregnant woman has their concerns and fears about pregnancy, and it’s even more worrisome especially if you have conditions like psoriasis.

Even if you are a psoriasis patient, there’s no need to let the autoimmune disease stop you from starting a family. Psoriasis doesn’t affect the chances of you getting pregnant nor does it causes miscarriage or congenital disabilities to your baby. Some women even are cleared from psoriasis plaques during their pregnancy!

Methotrexate (Trexall, Rheumatrex)

This drug causes chromosomes complications and affects the development of your baby. Miscarriages, birth defects, and cleft palate are other problems caused by methotrexate.

It also decreases sperm counts in men, so both men and women should stop taking this drug for at least three months before trying to get pregnant.

Tazorac (Tazarotene)

Pregnant women or psoriasis patients trying to get pregnant should avoid this topical retinoid. It is classified under category C by the FDA, meaning that there isn’t much testing done on animals or humans.

You should stop using Tazorac for at least two weeks before trying to conceive a baby. Avoid applying it near the breast area if you’re breastfeeding as well.

Acitretin (Soriatane)

There are many reports of this oral retinoid causing birth defects, especially when consumed during the first trimester of pregnancy. The effects of acitretin are so severe that doctors advise patients to avoid it two to three years before getting pregnant and during pregnancy.

Adalimumab (Humira)

This prescription medication treats autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis. It blocks tumour necrosis factor (TNF), a substance that causes inflammation in the joints.

There are not many links of adalimumab to infertility or birth defects, but patients should avoid Adalimumab or any biologics unless it is necessary.

Final thoughts

If you’re planning to get pregnant or have any concerns about the treatment and medication during pregnancy, do not hesitate to discuss with your dermatologist. Psoriasis isn’t known to cause complications during pregnancy, so hopefully, you can get through your pregnancy worry-free!

Find more information on pregnancy and psoriasis by visiting http://www.mypsoriasis.my/psoriasis-and-pregnancy!