What anti-depressant inhibitor drugs are safe to take during pregnancy?



Best answer:
So far, bupropion (Wellbutrin) has not been associated with risks to a developing baby. But researchers have identified various risks with other types of antidepressants. For example:

Paxil. Paroxetine (Paxil) ?? a type of antidepressant known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) ?? has been linked to fetal heart defects when it's taken during the first three months of pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends avoiding Paxil during pregnancy, if possible.

Other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
Taking other SSRIs ?? including citalopram (Celexa), fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft) ?? in the last half of pregnancy increases the risk of a rare but serious lung problem known as persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn. This condition occurs when a newborn's circulation system doesn't adapt to breathing outside the womb. For some women, however, the benefits of continuing these drugs may outweigh the risks.
Tricyclic antidepressants. These older antidepressants ?? including amitriptyline and nortriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor) ?? are generally discouraged during pregnancy in favor of newer, more effective medications. Potential risks of tricyclic antidepressants to a baby may include damage to the central nervous system, physical deformities or developmental delays.

Are there any other risks for the baby?

If you take an SSRI antidepressant throughout pregnancy or during the last trimester, your baby may experience temporary withdrawal symptoms at birth ?? including tremors, gastrointestinal problems, sleep disturbances and high-pitched cries.
Best answer:
been there, done that
http://www.cnn.com/health/library/dn/000...

By http://www.health-question.net
Published: 8/28/2008