Is Celexa safe to take while pregnant?

Understanding the Safety of Celexa During Pregnancy
The decision to take Celexa (citalopram) during pregnancy is a complex one, influenced by the potential benefits for the mother against possible risks to the developing fetus. As a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), Celexa is commonly prescribed to treat depression and anxiety, conditions that can significantly impact a woman’s well-being during pregnancy.
Potential Risks
Research indicates that while Celexa does not appear to pose a major teratogenic risk—meaning it is not strongly linked to causing birth defects—there are still concerns regarding its use, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy. Some studies suggest that taking SSRIs like Celexa during the second half of pregnancy may increase the risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN), a serious lung condition that can affect a baby’s ability to breathe after birth.
Additionally, while a study involving 396 pregnant women found no significant major risks associated with citalopram during early pregnancy, there have been reports of spontaneous abortion linked to its use. This highlights the importance of careful monitoring and consultation with healthcare providers.
Weighing Benefits Against Risks
For many women, the benefits of managing depression or anxiety with medication during pregnancy can outweigh the potential risks. Untreated mental health conditions can lead to complications such as poor prenatal care, increased stress, and negative outcomes for both mother and baby. Therefore, healthcare professionals often emphasize the need for a personalized approach, weighing the severity of the mother’s condition against the potential risks to the fetus.
Recommendations for Expecting Mothers
Expecting mothers considering Celexa should engage in thorough discussions with their healthcare providers. This dialogue should cover the severity of their mental health condition, the potential risks associated with Celexa, and alternative treatment options. In some cases, non-pharmacological interventions such as therapy may be recommended, especially if the mental health condition is mild.
Ultimately, the decision to continue or discontinue Celexa during pregnancy should be made collaboratively, ensuring that both the mother’s mental health and the baby’s safety are prioritized.

Can citalopram affect a pregnancy test?

To our knowledge, no published case report of amenorrhea and false-positive urine pregnancy tests in women taking escitalopram exists. This case report suggests that women of child-bearing age should be carefully monitored for amenorrhea while they are on an antidepressant treatment regimen.

Can you take antidepressants in early pregnancy?

As a precaution, antidepressants are not usually recommended for most pregnant women, especially during the early stages of a pregnancy. This is because there might be risks for you or your baby. But it’s important that depression is well treated because it can affect both you and your baby’s wellbeing.

Does Celexa cross the placenta?

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as fluoxetine, citalopram, paroxetine, sertraline, fluvoxamine, and escitalopram cross the placenta and enter the fetal circulation.

What can I take for severe anxiety while pregnant?

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed for depression and anxiety during pregnancy and after delivery. It does not appear that SSRIs are associated with an increased risk of major congenital malformations.

Should I stop taking citalopram while pregnant?

Taking citalopram in the last month of pregnancy may slightly increase your risk of bleeding after delivery. However, because this side-effect is rare and treatable, it is not a reason to stop taking citalopram for most pregnant women.

Is it safe to get pregnant on Celexa?

Citalopram and fertility
For women, there’s no evidence to suggest that taking citalopram will reduce your fertility. Speak to a pharmacist or your doctor if you’re trying to get pregnant as they may want to review your treatment.

What is the safest antidepressant for pregnancy?

Antidepressants that are considered safer include: Amitriptyline (Elavil) Bupropion (Wellbutrin) Citalopram (Celexa)

Can I take citalopram while pregnant?

Citalopram can be used in pregnancy. Some studies have suggested that citalopram might occasionally affect the development of a baby’s heart. However, if there is any risk, it is small, and most babies born to women taking citalopram have a normal heart.

Is it safe to take Celexa while pregnant?

Are there any risks of taking citalopram during pregnancy? SSRIs are commonly taken during pregnancy without any problem. However, some studies have linked SSRIs to a higher chance of preterm delivery, or of having a baby with a low birth weight.

What are the safest anxiety medications for pregnancy?

What anxiety medications are safe during pregnancy?

• Citalopram (Celexa)
• Escitalopram (Lexapro)
• Fluoxetine (Prozac)
• Paroxetine (Paxil)
• Sertraline (Zoloft)