Is it okay to take trazodone when pregnant?

Understanding Trazodone Use During Pregnancy
The question of whether it is safe to take trazodone during pregnancy is complex and nuanced, reflecting a balance between potential benefits and risks. Trazodone, primarily an antidepressant, is often prescribed off-label for conditions such as insomnia, which can be particularly troublesome during pregnancy. However, the lack of extensive research on its effects in pregnant women raises significant concerns.
Current Research and Recommendations
According to available data, there are no controlled studies that definitively establish the safety of trazodone for pregnant women. While some studies suggest that trazodone does not increase the rates of major malformations in newborns beyond the baseline rate of 1% to 3%, the overall evidence remains limited and primarily based on small cohorts of trazodone-exposed pregnant women. This uncertainty is compounded by the fact that many healthcare providers prefer to prescribe selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Prozac or Zoloft during pregnancy, as these medications have more established safety profiles.
The NHS notes that while trazodone may be used during pregnancy, it is crucial for women to consult with their healthcare providers to weigh the potential benefits against the risks. The decision to use trazodone should be made on a case-by-case basis, considering the severity of the mother’s symptoms and the potential impact on both her health and the developing fetus.
Potential Risks and Considerations
One of the primary concerns regarding trazodone use in pregnancy is its sedative properties, which may lead to complications such as excessive sedation in the newborn if taken close to delivery. Additionally, the MGH Center for Women’s Mental Health emphasizes that more research is needed to fully understand the safety of sedative-hypnotic medications like trazodone during pregnancy .
Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should engage in thorough discussions with their healthcare providers about their mental health needs and the safest treatment options available. This is particularly important for those experiencing severe insomnia or depression, as untreated mental health conditions can also pose risks to both the mother and the baby.
Conclusion
In summary, while trazodone may be prescribed during pregnancy, its use should be approached with caution. The lack of comprehensive studies means that potential risks cannot be fully quantified, making it essential for pregnant women to consult with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions tailored to their specific circumstances. The overarching goal should always be to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the developing child.

Can you take trazodone while trying to get pregnant?

Trazodone and fertility
There’s no clear evidence to suggest that taking trazodone reduces fertility in either men or women. But speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you’re trying to get pregnant. They may want to review your treatment.

What sleep medication is safe during pregnancy?

In fact, doxylamine is probably the safest option when it comes to sleep medications during pregnancy, says Layan Alrahmani, M.D., a board-certified ob-gyn, maternal-fetal medicine specialist, and member of the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board.

What is trazodone rated for pregnancy?

US FDA pregnancy category C: Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Does trazodone cause fertility issues?

According to our study results, which we performed independently of other risk factors related to reproductive toxicity, TRZ administration decreased sperm concentration, motility, and normal sperm morphology, increased sperm DNA damage, and induced degeneration of testicular structure.

Is trazodone safe while pregnant?

Every pregnancy starts out with a 3-5% chance of having a birth defect. This is called the background risk. Studies have looked at over 300 pregnancies where trazodone was taken during the first trimester. These studies did not find an increased chance of birth defects above the background risk.

Who should avoid trazodone?

have epilepsy or are having electroconvulsive treatment – trazodone may increase your risk of having a seizure. are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding. have porphyria, a rare disorder. have phaeochromocytoma, a condition that affects the adrenal glands.

Can you take sleepeaze when pregnant?

Diphenhydramine and pregnancy
While diphenhydramine can be used during pregnancy, it is not normally recommended.

Does trazodone cross the placenta?

Conclusions. Our findings show that trazodone and its active metabolite mCPP can cross the placental barrier and be excreted into breast milk.

Is trazodone safe for babies?

This drug is not approved for use in children. However, the doctor may decide the benefits of taking this drug outweigh the risks. If your child has been given this drug, ask the doctor for information about the benefits and risks.

How to treat insomnia in early pregnancy?

Choose daily activities that make it easier to fall asleep.
For example, light exercise early in the day can keep you healthy and help you fall asleep at night. Short naps (no more than 30 minutes) can help you play “catch up” if you’re sleep-deprived. Just don’t nap for too long or in the late afternoons or evenings.