Ask Our Expert - Taking Prozac While Pregnant

July 19, 2008

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Specializing in pregnancy and birth.


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Ask Dr. Greenfield Taking Prozac While Pregnant

QUESTION


Dear Dr. Greenfield, I am 35 and recently married. I would like to conceive and have a regular cycle. There is one problem. I take 40 mgs. of Prozac for a very serious eating disorder (bulimia). Should I stop? I am so afraid of the consequences either way. I have been taking anti-depressants for over seven years. — RX Worries in Fort Lauderdale, FL

ANSWER	September 11, 2001


Dear RX Worries, Many women have taken Prozac (fluoxetine) throughout pregnancy without any known ill effects on the baby. It may be better for the fetus to have a mom who is not ill or depressed than to avoid all medications. And of all the anti-depressants we know the most about the safety of Prozac in pregnancy because it has been studied the most. Bulimia can be a very difficult disease in pregnancy. Some women find that the nausea and bloating in early pregnancy, coupled with their anxiety about weight gain and the other body changes that are happening can throw them back into their illness. Medical specialists usually recommend waiting until the bulimia has resolved before considering pregnancy and being sure to have therapy available if you should need it. A preconception visit with an obstetrical practitioner may help to answer your questions. Good luck. Don’t forget to take your folate! — by Marjorie Greenfield, M.D.

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