Drugs. The developing fetus may be adversely affected by drugs through several mechanisms. They can be teratogenic,cause metabolic disturbances. Produce chemical effects, or cause
depression or alteration of center nervous system [CNS] function.
This category includes medications prescripbed by a health care provider or bought over the counter, as well as commonly abused drugs such as heroin, cocaine, and marijuana. [see chapter 32 for more information about drug and alcohol abused.