• SSRI and pregnancy

    Prenatal Exposure to Maternal Depression and SSRIs Affect Network Connectivity, But in Different Ways

    While we have considerable data regarding the reproductive safety of antidepressants, including the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), most studies have focused on the prevalence of major malformations in children with prenatal exposure to [...]

    SSRIs and Pregnancy: No Increase in Risk of Malformations

    Over the last few years, we have reported on several studies which have suggested an increased risk of certain types of cardiovascular malformations among children exposed to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) during pregnancy. The first reports [...]

    Anxiety During Pregnancy: Options for Treatment

    Anxiety symptoms are relatively common during pregnancy but typically undiagnosed and undertreated.  A recent study of 2793 women observed that 9.5% of women meet criteria for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) at some point during their pregnancy.  The highest rates of GAD were observed in the first trimester (7%). Only 2% of women met criteria for GAD in the second trimester, and 3% in the third trimester.

    Measuring the Effects of Antidepressants versus Untreated Depression on Pregnancy Outcomes

    Multiple studies have demonstrated an increased risk of poor neonatal adaptation associated with exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants in late pregnancy.  Results in the literature consistently indicate that about 25%-30% of infants exposed to SSRIs late in pregnancy manifest symptoms of poor neonatal adaption, including jitteriness, restlessness, increased muscle tone, rapid breathing.  These symptoms are transient, resolving spontaneously with no specific medical intervention.

    SSRIs and PPHN: A Review of the Data

    In 2006, Chambers and colleagues published an article linking SSRI use during late pregnancy to an increased risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension in the newborn (PPHN). Since that time, several other reports have been published which have examined the association between SSRI antidepressants and PPHN.  Here is a summary of the findings to date:

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