New Research from the CWMH: Risk of Major Malformations in Infants with Prenatal Exposure to Benzodiazepines
Data from an ongoing pregnancy registry offers reassurance that benzodiazepines do not appear to have major teratogenic effects.
Data from an ongoing pregnancy registry offers reassurance that benzodiazepines do not appear to have major teratogenic effects.
Based on this large cohort study including 990 pregnancies with first trimester exposure to atomoxetine, the researchers observed no increase in major congenital malformations overall and no statistically increased risk estimates for cardiac or limb malformations.
Although a small sample, no major malformations were observed in a prospectively followed cohort of women with first trimester exposure to buspirone.
Our data regarding prenatal exposure to BZDs and/or z-drugs and risk of neurodevelopmental outcomes is still sparse.
Many women experience depression during pregnancy. What is the best way to identify these women?
Dr. Lee S. Cohen, Director of the Ammon-Pinizzotto Center for Women's Mental Health at Massachusetts General Hospital, recently shared his insights on clinical issues regarding prescribing antidepressants during pregnancy with Ob.Gyn News on March 23, [...]
SSRI and SNRI antidepressants were not associated with an increased risk for gestational diabetes.
In this large study with over 1500 exposures, duloxetine exposure during the first trimester does not appear to increase risk of major malformations.
Given limited data on the reproductive safety of oxcarbazepine, we would recommend using alternate medications during pregnancy, when possible.
The reality is that most of the antidepressants taken by women today are relatively safe and carry a very low risk to the developing fetus.