Chapter 1 - Cancer Treatment during Pregnancy
Nausea and vomiting
Active or proactive treatment with metoclopramide, domperidone or ondansteron is possible throughout the pregnancy period. Prednisone could also be used, but preferably during the second trimester.
Pain
Paracetamol is the analgesic of choice. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be avoided, as they are associated with foetal defects, risk of miscarriage and oligohydramnios. Opiates could be used in cases of severe pain, but they are better avoided close to delivery, as they can be associated with neonatal withdrawal effects.
Infections
Cephalosporins, metronidazole and clarithromycin could be used safely during pregnancy. Limited data are available on imipenem and meropenem. Quinolones and aminoglycosides should be avoided during the course of gestation, as they are associated with foetal congenital malformations.
Anaemia and leukopenia
Erythropoietin and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) should not be used unless there is an urgent need for them, given the limited safety data on their use during pregnancy.
Osteoporosis and bone metastases
Bisphosphonates were shown to induce foetal skeletal defects in animal models. They can also cause maternal hypocalcaemia, which could affect uterine contractions and hence should be avoided.
