Drug causing discolouration of teeth in the fetus – Pharmacology MCQ

Which of the following can cause discolouration of teeth in the fetus?
A. Lithium
B. Tetracycline
C. Warfarin
D. Isotretinoin

Correct answer : B. Tetracycline

Structure of tetracycline

• Intake of tetracycline by pregnant women results in the discolouration and deformity of teeth in the fetus. It can also produce impairment of bone growth.
• Lithium can cause fetal goitre and cardiac abnormalities.
• Warfarin can cause fetal warfarin syndrome (Warfarin embryopathy) which is characterised by growth retardation, depressed nose and defects of the eye and hands.
• Isotretinoin can produce craniofacial, heart and CNS defects. It can also induce hydrocephalus.

Ref: KDT 7th, p89