Table 3

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs

Agent
FDA pregnancy category
Adverse effects in human pregnancy
Summary risk assessment

Methotrexate
X
Pattern of malformation, including apparent dose-related abnormalities of growth, craniofacies, limb development, and neurodevelopment
Based on available data, contraindicated in human pregnancy; unknown magnitude of risk
Sulfasalazine
B
Possible increased risk for malformations suggested in two studies; other studies negative
Based on limited data, a substantial teratogenic risk is unlikely
Leflunomide
X
No documented increased risk for structural defects in humans
Based on minimal data in human pregnancy, teratogenic risk is undetermined
Hydroxychloroquine
C
No documented increased risks for malformations; theoretical concerns for retinal toxicity and ototoxicity, but no reported cases
Although data are insufficient, a substantial teratogenic risk is unlikely
Azathioprine
D
No documented increased risk for structural defects; growth and gestational age effects may be related to transplant status
Although data are limited, a substantial risk for structural malformations is unlikely
Cyclosporine
C
No documented increased risk for structural defects; growth and gestational age effects may be related to transplant status
Based on limited data, risk for structural malformations is unlikely
Chlorambucil
D
Case reports only – two with unilateral renal agenesis
Based on insufficient data, teratogenic risk is undetermined
Cyclophosphamide
D
Pattern of malformation including increased risk for abnormalities of growth, craniofacies, limb development, and neurodevelopment
Based on available data, contraindicated in human pregnancy; unknown magnitude of risk

Chambers et al. Arthritis Research & Therapy 2006 8:215   doi:10.1186/ar1977