[JLF2006]

Just wondering if anyone can help me or perhaps steer me in the right direction about picking the right medication while pregnant, and also, for breast feeding. I know, we are all different, but I am so very interested in hearing what has worked for those of you that have had to deal with this. I used to take Effexor---and that was it, no mood stabilizer, and I went off of that because I read that particular drug would be harmful to the fetus. I am terrified about the impending post-partum depression...I'm definitely feeling the effects of being off my meds, despite alternative therapies (accupuncture/chiropractic; a LOT of Omega 3 fatty acids....). Any suggestions are TRULY appreciated.

Jack's mom (3 months to go...)

[darkeyes]

For safety sake, contact your doc., there are so many meds one should NOT use while pregnant or planning on getting pregnant, while yet there are ones that are safe.
Best to talk with your doc(s), I know how much it means, being concerned, I was petrified when I finally got pregnant of everything and anything that may harm my baby, during this stage.
Take care,
DE

[LMo]

I actually just got back from my doctor's office with a similar question.

There are 5 risk classes of medications that are ranked according to how they affect unborn fetuses.

A - means that it has been tested on pregnant women and is been proven to be safe. Tylenol is the only one in this class.
B- means that while it has never been tested on human pregnant women (and never will), but they have extrapolated that it is safe for people based on their tests with pregnant lab animals
C- same as B, but studies found some risk with pregnant lab animals
D- I don't actually remember if there was a D
X- absolutely no way should you take this while pregnant

I was asking because I had been on Lexapro last year but stopped because I'm trying to get pregnant. However, I've been a quivering bundle of nerves lately and I thought it was worth a discussion of the risk factors. The doctor said that Lexapro is a class C drug, and that Welbutrin is the only class B anti-depressant that would work for me. However, I still don't want to take the risk, since my anxiety doesn't paralyze me or anything like that. I'll just keep exploring non-med options.

Hope that info is helpful!
LMo

[twinkle]

Hey u guys!

I was curious about that too. All I know is that u must not take lithium at all during pregnancy as it causes birth defects. Also, as soon as you give birth you should go straight back on your meds and not breastfeed to prevent another episode occuring.

Cheers
Twinkle