Is it OK to take Lexapro while pregnant?
The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) classifies Lexapro in the category C for the safety of use during pregnancy. This category indicates there has not been enough clinical research on humans to deem the medication safe. Other SSRI antidepressants have been associated with several issues for fetuses and newborns.
Does Lexapro cause birth defects?
Briggs, Freeman, & Yaffe – Human pregnancy experience with escitalopram is very limited. The animal data suggest that the risk to an embryo-fetus is low. Two large case-control studies did find an increased risk for some birth defects, but the absolute risk appears to be small.
How long should you be off Lexapro before getting pregnant?
Pregnancy and Antidepressants: What the Experts Say Both psychiatric experts and ob-gyn experts agree that if you have mild depression and have been symptom-free for at least six months, you may be able to stop using antidepressants under a doctor’s supervision before getting pregnant or while you are pregnant.
Should I stop taking antidepressants while pregnant?
Women who take antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), during pregnancy may worry about whether the medications can cause birth defects. There is good news on this front. Osborne says that there is generally no need to taper off medications during pregnancy.
What anxiety medication can you take while pregnant?
SSRIs are generally considered an option during pregnancy, including citalopram (Celexa) and sertraline (Zoloft). Potential complications include maternal weight changes and premature birth. Most studies show that SSRIs aren’t associated with birth defects.
Does Lexapro make it hard to get pregnant?
It is not known if citalopram/escitalopram can make it harder to get pregnant. Studies in animals found that citalopram might cause some reduced fertility (ability to get pregnant).
Can you take anxiety meds while pregnant?
Generally, these antidepressants are an option during pregnancy: Certain selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs are generally considered an option during pregnancy, including citalopram (Celexa) and sertraline (Zoloft).
Can Lexapro cause miscarriage?
The tough reality is that taking any antidepressant at this delicate time may slightly raise your chances of having a miscarriage. Research from 2016 suggests that antidepressant use during the first trimester is associated with an increased risk of miscarriage.
What can I take for anxiety when pregnant?
Are there any side effects to taking Lexapro?
Started Lexapro at 5 mg (low dose) 3 weeks & have had a lot of side effects. Still high anxiety, which they have me taking Xanax to help with. Just Upped me to 10 mg 2 days ago, to get to a therapeutic dose.
What to do about breast tenderness while taking Lexapro?
If your breast tenderness seems to be related to Lexapro — or if you become pregnant or are breast-feeding while taking Lexapro — talk with your doctor for advice as soon as possible. Your doctor may recommend another antidepressant.
How does Lexapro work as an antidepressant?
It is an antidepressant that belongs to a group of medicines known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These medicines work by increasing the activity of the chemical serotonin in the brain. This medicine is available only with your doctor’s prescription.
Are there any generic forms of Lexapro available?
Lexapro and several other antidepressants are available in generic form, though any side effects should be similar to those of the brand-name product. Antidepressants: Can they stop working?
