How to Use Wellbutrin During Pregnancy to Treat Anxiety Attacks

Anxiety attacks can be a debilitating problem for anyone, but when you are suffering from anxiety while you are pregnant, you may be wondering if it's safe to continue taking your anxiety medication.
Wellbutrin is one of the anxiety medications that can be taken during pregnancy. It can reduce your anxiety symptoms, allowing you to safely enjoy one of the happiest and most exciting times of your life.

Instructions

1. Schedule an appointment with your psychologist as soon as you find out that you are pregnant. Before your appointment, write down any questions that you have concerning your medication.
   When you get to your appointment, inform the doctor of your pregnancy and discuss the best ways to treat your anxiety while pregnant. Your psychologist may either wish to speak to your OB-GYN or write her a letter concerning your mental health.

2. Talk to your OB-GYN about your anxiety problems and explain that you have been taking Wellbutrin for anxiety attacks. Inform her of your wish to stay on it during pregnancy. Give your doctor the name and phone number of your psychologist in case she wants to speak with him to get more information on the drug and its interactions.

3. Weigh the risks versus the benefits of taking Wellbutrin during pregnancy with both your OB-GYN and your psychologist. With the help of both doctors, determine the best course of action to keep you mentally and physically healthy during your pregnancy.

4. Determine the lowest possible dosage that will still be effective for you during pregnancy. Your doctors may want to decrease your dosage so that there will be a minimal risk to the fetus, while keeping you mentally healthy, as well.

5. Discuss a mental health wellness plan with both of your doctors that will go into effect after the baby is born. You may need to increase your dosage of Wellbutrin after the birth of your baby, so bottle feeding might be a better idea than nursing.

Tips & Warnings

• There have been no well-controlled studies in humans that have shown serious risk to the fetus while the mother is taking Wellbutrin. However, Wellbutrin should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. If you experience any unusual side effects while taking Wellbutrin during pregnancy, notify your doctor immediately.

References

• Mayo Clinic

Resources

• Wellbutrin and Pregnancy