Which antifungal should be avoided in pregnant women due to teratogenic effects?

The antifungal that should be avoided in pregnant women due to teratogenic effects is Fluconazole. Research has demonstrated that this medication, when used during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, is associated with an increased risk of congenital malformations, including significant anomalies in the development of the fetus. The concern arises from its ability to cross the placental barrier, potentially leading to adverse developmental outcomes.

In contrast, other antifungal agents listed, such as Amphotericin B, are typically considered safer during pregnancy due to their track record of being less associated with fetal harm. Flucytosine has limited use in pregnancy due to its safety profile but is not as prominently linked to teratogenicity as Fluconazole. Ketoconazole, while it does have risks, is less commonly prescribed for systemic infections in pregnancy due to its hormonal effects but is not as specifically tied to teratogenic outcomes as Fluconazole. Therefore, Fluconazole's strong association with teratogenic effects sets it apart as a drug to avoid in pregnant women.