Administer antidepressants during pregnancy on a case-by-case basis

AbstractAntidepressants are often avoided during pregnancy due to the concern that they may cause harm to the developing foetus. Observational studies, the results of which are notoriously subject to confounds and biases, have demonstrated prenatal antidepressant exposure to be associated with a range of adverse outcomes. Many risk estimates are likely to have been inflated, although some associations do remain in adequately controlled analyses. Clinicians should provide pregnant patients with up-to-date information on risks based on the strongest evidence available. The possible risks of antidepressants need to be carefully weighed against the risks of untreated or inadequately treated maternal depression to both the patient and offspring, with treatment decisions made on an individual basis.
Source: Drugs and Therapy Perspectives - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Source Type: research