Contraindications

Contraindications are specific situations in which a drug, procedure, or surgery should not be used because it may be harmful to the person. This term is most commonly used in the field of medicine.

Definition

A Contraindication is a condition or factor that serves as a reason to withhold a certain medical treatment due to the harm that it would cause the patient. Contraindication might be absolute or relative. An absolute contraindication is a situation which makes a particular treatment or procedure absolutely inadvisable. A relative contraindication is a condition which makes a particular treatment or procedure potentially inadvisable.

Types of Contraindications

There are two types of contraindications:

1. Absolute contraindication - This is when a drug, procedure, or surgery should not be performed in any circumstance as it could result in a life-threatening situation.

2. Relative contraindication - This is when a drug, procedure, or surgery is not recommended, but can be done if the benefits outweigh the risks.

Examples

Some examples of contraindications include:

• Pregnancy - Many drugs should not be used during pregnancy as they can harm the fetus. For example, thalidomide is contraindicated in pregnancy due to its teratogenic effects.

• Allergy - If a person is allergic to a certain drug, then that drug is contraindicated.

• Asthma - Some drugs like beta-blockers are contraindicated in asthma as they can trigger an asthma attack.

See Also

• Indication (medicine)
• Adverse effect
• Drug interaction
• Precaution (medicine)

References

Contraindications Resources
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