Based on new evidence assessing benefits and risks, the WHO recommends the use of the HIV drug Dolutegravir {DTG} as the preferred first-line and second-line treatment for all populations, including pregnant women and those of childbearing potential.
Initial studies had highlighted a possible link between DTG and neural tube defects {birth defects of the brain and spinal cord that cause conditions such as spina bifida} in infants born to women using the drug at the time of conception.
This potential safety concern was reported in May 2018 from a study in Botswana that found 4 cases of neural tube defects out of 426 women who became pregnant while taking DTG.
Based on those preliminary findings, many countries advised pregnant women and women of childbearing potential to take Efavirenz {EFV} instead. Read more here https://www.9jatalkativesblog.com/2019/07/who-recommends-hiv-treatment-option.html?m=1