Antiretroviral drugs, genotoxicity, and adverse effects

ents and also specifically for reducing the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV in relation to pregnancy and childbirth. In this report we review the consequences that have been demonstrated for children following in utero exposure of these drugs. We focus mainly on the groups of drugs that are known to be potentially genotoxic (NRTIs). The risk of cancer-development is the concern that is most commonly related to genotoxicity, however we also review other outcomes we believe to be important. Methods: This is a summary of relevant research reports identified through searches in several databases and reference lists in relevant papers. Main results: • The research findings currently available do not indicate an increased risk of adverse health outcomes related to in utero exposure of ARVs. • Zidovudine for preventing mother-to-child transmission has not been associated with premature delivery, still birth, low birth weight, birth defects or any other major adverse health outcomes in the first years of life.