 There have long been concerns regarding the use of the anticonvulsant valproate (Depakote) during pregnancy.  First trimester use of valproate has been associated with a 3-5% risk of neural tube defects, as well as [...]
PMDD or premenstrual dysphoric disorder has always been a bit of mystery. Â We explain that PMDD is triggered by changes in reproductive hormone levels, but when you look at hormone levels in women with PMDD, [...]
According to data from the 2002-2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, the prevalence of marijuana use was 3.8% in pregnant women (n=14,400), compared to 7.5% in nonpregnant women (n=395,600). Â Â The investigators observed that [...]
In 2015, we first reported on SAGE-547 (SAGE Therapeutics), a new medication for the treatment of severe postpartum depression. Â SAGE-547, now called brexanolone, is an allosteric modulator of GABAA receptors. Â This drug was initially under [...]
 A slow week.  There is more concerning data regarding the use of marijuana in pregnant women, which is prevalent in pregnant teens.  And an elegant study from Peter Schmidt and David Rubinow which gives [...]
Over the years, we have seen a number of research studies which suggested a link between maternal smoking during pregnancy and adverse psychiatric outcomes in offspring, including increased risk for bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity [...]
Beta blockers are the most commonly used class of medication for treating cardiac conditions in pregnant women. Â They are also effective for the treatment of anxiety symptoms, most commonly performance anxiety. According to a report [...]
Pregabalin (marketed in the US as Lyrica) is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of epilepsy, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain. Â It is also used off-label to treat psychiatric disorders, most [...]
The two lead articles take a look at the use of two anticonvulsants during pregnancy, lamotrigine (Lamictal) and pregabalin (Lyrica); the data are reassuring with regard to the reproductive safety of these medications. Pariente G, [...]
 At the top of the list are three articles (and one commentary) looking at the risk of autism in children exposed to SSRIs. We will soon cover these reports in greater detail; however, the [...]
