Which strategy is important when prescribing antivirals to pregnant patients?

When prescribing antivirals to pregnant patients, carefully evaluating benefits versus risks is crucial due to the potential impacts on both the mother and developing fetus. Antiviral medications can be vital in treating viral infections, but many of these drugs may not have sufficient safety data for use during pregnancy.

The evaluation of risks includes considering not only the potential side effects of the antiviral on the mother but also the possible teratogenic effects on the fetus. In certain cases, the risks of not treating a viral infection—such as severe illness in the mother or vertical transmission of infection to the fetus—may outweigh the potential risks associated with the medication.

This strategy emphasizes the need for a thorough risk assessment, taking into account gestational age, the severity of the mother's condition, and available safety data on the antivirals being considered. The goal is to ensure that both the mother and fetus remain safe while effectively managing the viral infection.

In contrast, other options, such as choosing drugs with known teratogenic effects or prescribing at higher doses, could lead to increased risks without a clear justification. Similarly, skipping treatment due to reported side effects could result in inadequate management of a potentially serious viral infection, further complicating the clinical scenario.