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Multiple Choice
Which of the following prescription drugs can function as teratogens?
A
Ibuprofen
B
Amoxicillin
C
Metformin
D
Thalidomide
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the term 'teratogen.' A teratogen is any substance, organism, or factor that can cause developmental abnormalities or birth defects in a developing embryo or fetus.
Step 2: Review the list of prescription drugs provided in the problem: Ibuprofen, Amoxicillin, Metformin, and Thalidomide. Consider their known effects on embryonic development based on scientific studies and medical literature.
Step 3: Recall that Thalidomide is a well-documented teratogen. Historically, it was prescribed as a sedative and treatment for morning sickness in pregnant women, but it caused severe birth defects, including limb malformations, in thousands of cases.
Step 4: Evaluate the other drugs listed. Ibuprofen, while not typically classified as a teratogen, can have risks during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. Amoxicillin is generally considered safe during pregnancy, and Metformin is used to manage diabetes and does not have teratogenic effects.
Step 5: Conclude that Thalidomide is the correct answer based on its established history and classification as a teratogen, while the other drugs listed do not fall into this category.