How Do Depression Medications Affect a Fetus?
Antidepressants work by building up in the system over time to alleviate the problems of depression. Depression medication should never be stopped suddenly, even if pregnancy occurs. The decision of whether to take antidepressants while pregnant always should be discussed thoroughly with a doctor.
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Types
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The most common depression medications are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SRRIs; another type is tricyclic antidepressants, or TCAs.
Effects
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Research on antidepressant use during pregnancy is ongoing. There are not many conclusive findings about the effects of depression medication on a fetus.
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Theories/Speculation
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The March of Dimes website reports some potential fetal problems caused by depression medication include persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN), low birth weight and heart problems.
Considerations
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a public health advisory in July 2006 stating that women who stop taking depression medication during pregnancy are more likely to relapse into depression than women who stay on antidepressants.
Warning
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According to the FDA, the antidepressant Paxil is specifically labeled with a warning that use during the first three months of pregnancy can cause "an increased risk of cardiac birth defects."
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