Safety of anti-TNF agents in pregnancy.

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and psoriasis are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Active maternal disease during pregnancy is associated with additional negative outcomes. Anti-TNF agents are effective treatments for inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and psoriasis. These agents cross the placenta starting in the second trimester, with levels detected for several months after birth. This has led to safety concerns, with continued therapy during pregnancy for both the mother and the infant. This review covers retrospective and prospective data published from various cohorts of pregnant women exposed to anti-TNF agents during pregnancy. It highlights the safety of anti-TNF drugs in pregnancy, breast-feeding, and during the first year of life of the infant.