There are data to support the use of certain antidepressants during pregnancy. Most of the research over the last decade has focused on the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine (Prozac) and the older tricyclic antidepressants, but there is some new data supporting the use of bupropion during pregnancy.
The most recent information from the Bupropion Pregnancy Registry maintained by the manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline includes data from 517 pregnancies involving first trimester exposure to bupropion. In this sample, there were 20 infants with major malformations. This represents a 3.9% risk of congenital malformation that is consistent with what is observed in women with no known teratogen exposure. (Health care providers may receive an updated report from GlaxoSmithKline by calling (800) 336-2176.) While this information regarding the overall risk of malformation is reassuring, earlier reports had revealed an unexpectedly high number of malformations of the heart and great vessels in bupropion-exposed infants.
To more carefully quantify the risk for cardiovascular malformation in bupropion-exposed infants, another study was conducted relying upon two large insurance claims databases (Cole et al, 2006). Outcomes were compared in three different groups: (1) women dispensed bupropion during the first trimester, (2) women dispensed other antidepressant during the first trimester, and (3) women dispensed bupropion after the first trimester. This retrospective cohort study including over 1200 infants exposed to bupropion during the first trimester did not reveal an increased risk of malformations in the bupropion-exposed group of infants nor did it demonstrate an increased risk for cardiovascular malformations. This study, however, did observe an increased risk of cardiovascular malformation in paroxetine-exposed infants (see our eNewsletter December 2005).
These data are complemented by a smaller prospective study from the Motherisk Program in Toronto (Chun-Fai-Chan et al, 2005). Women who were pregnant or planning a pregnancy and taking bupropion (n=136) were enrolled in the study and were contacted after delivery. There were 105 live births and no major malformations were reported. Compared to a group of women with non-teratogen exposures, there were no significant differences in birth weight or mean gestational age. In the bupropion group 20 women (14.7%) had miscarriages, which is higher than observed in the non-teratogen control group but is consistent with rates observed in women taking other antidepressants.
Given these data, bupropion may be an attractive option for women who have not responded well to fluoxetine or tricyclic antidepressants. Further studies are required to assess the risk of neonatal symptoms in bupropion-exposed infants and to better evaluate the long-term neurobehavioral effects of bupropion exposure.
Ruta Nonacs, MD PhD
Up-to-date information on Paroxetine (and other related antidepressants) and pregnancy via GlaxoSmithKline: http://www.gsk.com/en-gb/media/resource-centre/paroxetine/paroxetine-and-pregnancy/
thank you for the update on use of wellbutrin in pregnancy. After perusing PubMed I found this to be an excellent summary that will be useful for my practice and my patient who is thinking about pregnancy and is now taking wellbutrin. I will advise her to switch to another medication.
Looks interesting, although quieta small sample set. Has there been any more recent news?
This was a great post. More information needs to be out there for women about pregnancy so they can have the best chance of having happy, healthy babies. I would like to see more from you on these topics please.
Great information please keep me updated with the latest news!!!! Thanks
Thank you
I am concerned. I just dont know enough and my doctor is keeping me on bupropion. The things I read scare me. I am only 5 weeks and dont meet with her till 8. I dont know if she will take me off of it at that time but I really dont want to harm my baby or miscarry :o(
I took Wellbutrin all through my 2nd pregnancy for depression. She was born perfect. Her heart is fine. However she has behavior problems. Being tested for ADHD and other sensory processing disorders. I often wonder if my use of the antidepressant has anything to do with these issues.
Any information on Bupropion and breast feeding?
It is limited. There is one case reort of an infant with a possible seizure. In another report, two women were breastfeeding while treated with bupropion and no adverse events were reported.