How safe is it to take antidepressants while pregnant?
ANSWER
There are questions about the safety of taking antidepressants when you are pregnant. But research is showing that many antidepressants, especially the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and older medications, are generally safe. Birth defects and other problems are possible. But the risk is very low.
From: Pregnancy and Antidepressants WebMD Medical Reference
Reviewed by Trina Pagano on October 31, 2018
SOURCES:
Chambers, C. , Feb. 9, 2006; vol 354: pp 579-587. The New England Journal of Medicine
Nakhai-Pour, R. July 2010; vol 182: pp 1031-1037. Canadian Medical Association Journal,
Louik, C. , June 28, 2007; vol 356: pp 2732-2734. The New England Journal of Medicine
Alwan, S. , June 28, 2007; vol 356: pp 2684-2692. The New England Journal of Medicine
News release, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Massachusetts General Hospital: "Psychiatric Disorders During Pregnancy."
CDC: "Use of Medications in Pregnant Women."
National Institute of Mental Health: "Which groups have special needs when taking psychiatric medications?"
March of Dimes: "Your Premature Baby."
National Institute of Mental Health: "Women and Depression."
Mayo Clinic: "Antidepressants: Safe during pregnancy?"
Lori Wolfe, president, Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS).
SOURCES:
Chambers, C. , Feb. 9, 2006; vol 354: pp 579-587. The New England Journal of Medicine
Nakhai-Pour, R. July 2010; vol 182: pp 1031-1037. Canadian Medical Association Journal,
Louik, C. , June 28, 2007; vol 356: pp 2732-2734. The New England Journal of Medicine
Alwan, S. , June 28, 2007; vol 356: pp 2684-2692. The New England Journal of Medicine
News release, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Massachusetts General Hospital: "Psychiatric Disorders During Pregnancy."
CDC: "Use of Medications in Pregnant Women."
National Institute of Mental Health: "Which groups have special needs when taking psychiatric medications?"
March of Dimes: "Your Premature Baby."
National Institute of Mental Health: "Women and Depression."
Mayo Clinic: "Antidepressants: Safe during pregnancy?"
Lori Wolfe, president, Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS).
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