Can you take the drug Paxil if you are pregnet?

Answer 1

The jury is still out. A series of small studies has suggested that the drugs most commonly prescribed for depression — selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) — are relatively safe to take during pregnancy, but recent research is casting new doubts. SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), citalopram (Celexa), and sertraline (Zoloft), among others.

Studies found no significant difference in the rates of miscarriages and stillbirth between women who take SSRIs and women who don't.


An older class of drugs known as tricyclics, which includes amitriptyline (Elavil) and imipramine (Tofranil), has a similar safety profile, as do other newer drugs such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), nefazodone (Serzone), and venlafaxine (Effexor).

However, a recent analysis of past research showed that babies whose mothers take SSRIs during pregnancy may be more likely to be born prematurely, have low birth weight, spend time in a neonatal intensive care unit, and have trouble adapting to life outside the womb. This was particularly the case for babies of women who were also taking other drugs for mental conditions or who smoked or drank alcohol.

Other recent studies have noted withdrawal symptoms in nearly a third of newborns whose mothers were treated with SSRIs near the end of their pregnancy. The most commonly reported symptoms included tremors, convulsions, irritability, and increased crying. These symptoms were relatively benign and short-lived, lasting only one to four days after birth. Some doctors recommend that their pregnant patients taper to a lower dosage or stop taking antidepressants ten to 14 days before their due date to prevent withdrawal symptoms in their newborn.

Two large studies published in 2005 found that the babies of women who took Paxil and Prozac in the first trimester had a greater risk of birth defects. Keep in mind that more studies are needed to confirm these results, and the babies' absolute risk for defects was still small. In the meantime, experts are recommending that women who take Paxil or Prozac consider switching to a different medication during pregnancy.

And now a small, well-designed study has found that babies whose moms took SSRIs in the second half of their pregnancy were six times more likely to be born with a rare but serious breathing problem. The disorder, called persistent pulmonary hypertension, is still uncommon among these babies (only about one percent developed it). More research will be needed to confirm the results.

If you're clinically depressed, it's important to get the treatment you need, whether it's psychotherapy or antidepressant medication or both. Some new preliminary research suggests that when depression or anxiety goes untreated during pregnancy, it may be harmful to you and your baby, possibly raising your risk of preterm labor, premature delivery, and a lower-birthweight baby.

Untreated depression during pregnancy can also continue after you deliver. Many studies have shown that if a mother is depressed postpartum, her child is more likely to have trouble with cognitive, social, and psychological development.

If you're pregnant and having symptoms of depression, consult your healthcare provider and get a referral to a counselor or psychiatrist. They can help you figure out what kind of care is best for you and whether you should be taking antidepressant medication.

If you're already taking antidepressants and decide to stop taking them while you're pregnant, be sure to consult your doctor on how best to do this. Quitting suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms, and you'll need to make sure you continue to get the support you need once you're off the medication.

NOTE: Antidepressants known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), such as phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate), may cause birth defects and are not considered safe to use during pregnancy.

Answer 2

I have been taking Paxil since 1995 and never had any problems or side effects. I like taking Paxil. A couple of times I have ran out and was unable to get my refills. The withdrawals I experienced wasn't difficult at all, generally they lasted anywhere from 48 to 60 hrs with very little side effects. Paxil reacts differently with each person and also how it reacts with the other drugs these individuals may be taking. Take only what the doctor prescribes. After reading the others who have responded to your call, I seem to be one of the few who likes Paxel. I've been a good boy all my life because I don't smoke and drink either.... This is my testimony for Paxil.. I hope this helps.. Good Luck...

Answer 3

My friend was taking this and she is pregnant, however her doctor just informed her that as of a couple months ago, Paxil has been deemed unsafe to take while pregnant. Especially when taken during the first three months it has been shown to cause certain birth defects and is unsafe to the developing baby. I am not trying to scare you, but if you are taking it now you should talk to your dr. right away so that they can put you on something safe.

Answer 4

Check with your doctor. I know some anti-depressants are safe at a low dose, but I'm not sure about anti-anxiety.

Answer 5

my doc agreed to put me back on an anti-depressent during my 2nd pregnancy because i was terrified about developing PPD again. i was on the lowest possible dose, and have noticed no harm done to my baby.

even having said that, talk to your doctor! only he/she can determine if it's the right course for you.

Answer 6

You need to talk to your OB doctor not people online as someone could give you the wrong information.

Answer 7

I would say that you shouldnt take any drug not prescribed by your doctor while you are pregnant.

Answer 8

You should not be on any medication while you are pregnant unless you doctor tells you it is OK. I suggest calling your OB/GYN and discussing it.

Answer 9

please cOnsult your doctor first before you take ANY drug, even if its over-the-counter because it can cause teratogenic effects on your fetus and you will regret it if he/she will be born with major defects. especially if you take it in the first trimester. no drug is ever safe during pregnancy. consult your doctor.

Answer 10

Probably not:

http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=57323