Pregnancy outcome following first-trimester exposure to fluoxetine (Prozac)

Article Abstract:

Use of the drug fluoxetine (Prozac) during the first trimester of pregnancy does not appear to increase the risk of birth defects. Fluoxetine is used by millions of people in the US to treat depression, but currently the manufacturer does not recommend prescribing fluoxetine to women who may become pregnant because its safety during pregnancy has not been established. Of 356 pregnant women, 128 had taken fluoxetine during the first trimester, 74 had taken tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) drugs and 74 had been exposed to a nonteratogen (NTA) such as dental x-rays or acetaminophen (Tylenol). The rate of major birth defects among infants born to women who had taken fluoxetine was within the normal range of 1% to 3%. There were no significant differences in the rates of major birth defects among infants exposed to fluoxetine and those exposed to TCAs or NTAs and there were no differences in pregnancy outcome, gestational age at delivery, maternal weight gain and infant birth weight.

Health aspects, Pregnancy, Fluoxetine, Prozac (Medication)

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Drugs in pregnancy

Article Abstract:

Physicians and their female patients need more information about which drugs can be used safely during pregnancy. Most drug manufacturers never test new drugs on pregnant women, so the only way to collect such information is through animal studies and epidemiologic studies once the drug is marketed. Some drugs are known teratogens, which means they cause birth defects or restricted growth in the fetus. Thalidomide is one such drug. One approach is to use an implantable contraceptive such as Norplant in women who are taking a drug known to affect the fetus. There are many older drugs that have been used safely, especially in low doses.

Analysis, Fetus, Pregnant women, Drug use, Teratogenic agents

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Pregnancy outcome following maternal use of the new selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors: a prospective controlled multicenter study

Article Abstract:

A group of antidepressant drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) do not appear to increase the risk of birth defects or pregnancy complications. These drugs include fluvoxamine, paroxetine, and sertraline. Researchers compared pregnancy outcomes in 267 women who took an SSRI during pregnancy and 267 who did not. The incidence of fetal malformations was no higher in those who took SSRIs, nor was the incidence of miscarriage, stillbirth or premature birth. Birth weights were also similar in the two groups.

Complications and side effects, Risk factors, Birth defects, Serotonin antagonists

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