Celexa and having children?

Question

This might be a silly question, but one that I'm interested in nonetheless.

My wife and I want to start trying to have children in January. I just started Celexa for anxiety last month.

Does anyone know if the Celexa (or any anti-depressant)would do any potential harm to an unborn child? I know it'd be different if she was on Celexa and got pregnant.

I don't think it would make a difference, but my wife is skeptical and concerned.

Answer 1

The future baby is not at risk if you are the one taking celexa. The reason many medications present a risk in pregnancy is because the medication crosses the placental barrier and exposes the fetus. To cross the placental barrier, it needs to enter the circulatory system (in most cases).

Celexa will not enter your wife's circulatory system via you. She would have to physically take the drug herself. Tell her not to worry and to go ahead with starting your family. And, if she doesn't believe me, tell her to call her gynecologist for verification. Good luck!