Mock Teratogen Genetic Counseling Session: Ozempic, Zoloft, Xanax, and Metformin

Value of the Information & Strength of the Argument

The video provides valuable information for genetic counseling students and the public, demystifying the process and offering evidence-based insights into medication risks during pregnancy. The argumentation is solid, grounded in the counselor’s expertise and current medical literature. The session effectively balances risk versus benefit, emphasizing the importance of maternal health. The counselor’s explanations are clear and nuanced, acknowledging uncertainties, especially for newer medications like Ozempic. The mock session format enhances educational value by modeling a realistic counseling interaction.

Scientific Rigor, Source Quality, Title Accuracy

The scientific rigor is high, with the counselor citing established knowledge and referencing MotherToBaby, a reputable teratogen information service. The video does not cite specific studies but relies on professional expertise and consensus. The title accurately reflects the content, and the session adheres to clinical guidelines. The educational disclaimer appropriately limits the scope. The video’s credibility is enhanced by the counselor’s credentials and the realistic portrayal of counseling.

The title accurately reflects the content: a mock genetic counseling session discussing the teratogenic risks of the mentioned medications.

8/10

The video features a licensed genetic counselor and teratogen information specialist with over 28 years of experience, providing evidence-based information. The content aligns with established medical knowledge, though it is educational and not individualized medical advice.

Markers derived by PSI from the transcript: the creator did not define chapters.

• 00:00Introduction by Edith Atwerebour and Sharon Voyer Lavigne, setting up the mock session.
• 02:00Denise presents her medication history: Ozempic, Zoloft, Xanax, and Metformin.
• 05:00Sharon explains the background risk of birth defects (3%) and the importance of timing.
• 08:00Discussion of Ozempic: limited human data, large molecule, and the importance of diabetes control.
• 12:00Metformin and insulin as alternatives; recommendation to consult diabetes educator.
• 15:00Zoloft: well-studied, no significant increase in birth defects; fetal echocardiogram may be offered.
• 18:00Xanax: sporadic use not high risk, but dependence and neonatal adaptation discussed.
• 21:00Importance of treating depression and anxiety; therapy and support systems.
• 24:00Postpartum planning and avoiding medication discontinuation without provider consultation.
• 27:00Summary: exposures not expected to significantly increase risk; priorities are diabetes control and mental health.

• MotherToBaby — Referenced as a free service for information on exposures during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Find A Genetic Counselor — Mentioned in the disclaimer as a resource to locate genetic counselors in the US.

• MotherToBaby — Provides evidence-based information on exposures during pregnancy, consistent with the video's content.