Unraveling the Effects – Mifepristone and Misoprostol Linked Congenital Anomalies

  • J. Chaithra 3rd Year MBBS Student, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.
  • Lekha R 3rd Year MBBS Student, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.
  • Shiva Murthy Nanjundappa Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research (CDSIMER), Devarakaggalahalli, Harohalli, Ramanagara District, Karnataka, India
  • Geethanjali BS Professor of Anatomy Department, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.
  • Asha Benakappa Professor and Head of Pediatric Department, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.
  • Raksha S K Assistant Professor of Pediatric Department, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.
  • Aishwarya M Assistant Professor of ENT Department, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.
  • Anusha K S Assistant Professor of OBG Department. Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.
Keywords: Medical abortion, VACTERL anomaly, Teratogenic effects, Mifepristone and Misoprostol, Causality assessment

Abstract

Background: Mifepristone and misoprostol are commonly used in medical abortion, known for their high efficacy. However, their potential association with congenital anomalies, particularly VACTERL anomaly, remains underexplored. This report presents a case of suspected adverse drug reaction leading to VACTERL anomaly.

Case Presentation: A 19-year-old primigravida at 36 weeks gestation presented with lower back and abdominal pain. She had a history of consuming abortion pills after confirming her pregnancy. She delivered a female infant with respiratory distress, diagnosed with multiple congenital anomalies including tracheoesophageal fistula, anal malformation, dextrocardia, and vertebral anomalies, consistent with VACTERL syndrome.

Discussion: This case discusses potential teratogenic effects, disruption of embryonic development, and possible genetic susceptibility as mechanisms for the observed anomalies. Although direct evidence is limited, this case highlights the need for further research and cautious use of these medications.

Conclusion: The case underscores the importance of informed clinical practice and vigilance in recognizing rare adverse drug reactions. Further studies are needed to establish a clear link between these medications and congenital anomalies.

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Author Biographies

J. Chaithra , 3rd Year MBBS Student, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.

3rd Year MBBS Student, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.

Lekha R, 3rd Year MBBS Student, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.

3rd Year MBBS Student, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.

Geethanjali BS, Professor of Anatomy Department, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.

Professor of Anatomy Department, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.

Asha Benakappa, Professor and Head of Pediatric Department, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.

Professor and Head of Pediatric Department, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.

Raksha S K, Assistant Professor of Pediatric Department, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.

Assistant Professor of Pediatric Department, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.

Aishwarya M, Assistant Professor of ENT Department, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.

Assistant Professor of ENT Department, Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.

Anusha K S, Assistant Professor of OBG Department. Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.

Assistant Professor of OBG Department. Dr Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dayananda Sagar University, Karnataka, India.

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JPADR Vol 6 Issue 3
Published
2025-09-01
How to Cite
1.
J. C, Reddy L, Nanjundappa SM, B S DG, Benakappa D . A, S K DRSK, M DA, K S DA. Unraveling the Effects – Mifepristone and Misoprostol Linked Congenital Anomalies. jpadr [Internet]. 2025Sep.1 [cited 2025Oct.9];6(3):4-. Available from: https://jpadr.com/index.php/jpadr/article/view/198
Issue
Vol 6 No 3 (2025): Journal of Pharmacovigilance and Drug Research
Section
Case reports

Copyright (c) 2025 Chaithra J, Lekha Reddy, Dr Shiva Murthy Nanjundappa, Dr Geethanjali B S, Dr . Asha Benakappa, Dr. Raksha S K S K, Dr. Aishwarya M, Dr. Anusha K S

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