Which drug class is contraindicated in pregnancy due to teratogenic effects?

ACE inhibitors are contraindicated in pregnancy primarily due to their teratogenic effects, particularly during the second and third trimesters. These medications can interfere with renal development in the fetus and have been associated with severe complications, including fetal renal failure, oligohydramnios, and pulmonary hypoplasia. As a result, current guidelines recommend that women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid these drugs to prevent harmful effects on fetal development.

While other drug classes, such as statins and certain antibiotics, may also pose risks during pregnancy, ACE inhibitors are particularly prominent in concerns regarding their teratogenic potential, especially in the later stages of pregnancy. This makes them a significant risk factor for serious developmental issues, which is why healthcare providers often advise against their use in pregnant individuals.