by Brenda Baletti, Ph.D., Childrens Health Defense:

Ketamine — which can be addictive — “readily and rapidly” crosses the placental barrier, and can cause serious birth defects if taken by pregnant women. Its use is on the rise, but prescribers are failing to warn women of the risks, a new study found.

Clinics that administer ketamine for mental health issues often fail to adequately warn patients of the serious risk ketamine poses for pregnant women, according to a new study from the University of Michigan.