Jan 15, 2026
Concerned about medication use during pregnancy? You’re not
alone.
In this episode of The MotherToBaby Podcast, host Chris Stallman,
MS, CGC (genetic counselor, mom of four, teratogen information
specialist) sits down with Dr. Judy C. Morrow of Harvard Medical
School to break down how FDA REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation
Strategy) programs help reduce the risk of birth defects and
protect pregnant patients.
Together, they discuss:
✔️ What REMS programs are and why they exist
✔️ How REMS programs support safe medication use
✔️ The role of manufacturers, prescribers, and pharmacists
✔️ Common medications with REMS programs (including
isotretinoin/Accutane)
✔️ Pregnancy testing requirements & pharmacy restrictions
✔️ Why some drugs don’t have REMS (even if risks exist)
✔️ What patients should ask if they’re prescribed a REMS-covered
medication
Dr. Morrow shares how researchers use real-world data to identify medication-related adverse events in pregnancy, how REMS programs try to prevent exposed pregnancies, and why communication between patients, providers, and pharmacists is essential.
If you’re pregnant, planning a pregnancy, breastfeeding, or support patients in these settings, this episode offers clear, practical insights to help guide informed decision-making.
🔎 Key topics: pregnancy, REMS, FDA, teratogens, isotretinoin, Accutane, birth defects, pharmacy programs, medication safety, pregnancy data, registries
🎧 Listen now to learn how REMS programs help protect pregnant women and their babies.