What effect does Cymbalta have on a newborn?

Understanding the Effects of Cymbalta on Newborns
Cymbalta, known generically as duloxetine, is a prescription medication primarily used to treat conditions such as major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and chronic pain syndromes. While its efficacy in adults is well-documented, the implications of its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding raise significant concerns, particularly regarding newborns.
Potential Risks During Pregnancy
When a pregnant individual takes Cymbalta, the drug can cross the placenta, potentially affecting the developing fetus. Research indicates that exposure to duloxetine during pregnancy may be associated with various risks. Some studies suggest an increased likelihood of complications such as neonatal withdrawal syndrome, which can manifest in newborns as irritability, feeding difficulties, and respiratory distress shortly after birth.
Additionally, there are concerns about the potential for congenital malformations. While the overall risk appears to be low, some evidence points to a possible association between the use of Cymbalta and specific birth defects, particularly when taken during the first trimester.
Effects on Breastfeeding
For those who choose to breastfeed while on Cymbalta, the drug is also excreted in breast milk, albeit in small amounts. The long-term effects on breastfeeding infants are not fully understood, but there is a potential for side effects similar to those seen in newborns exposed in utero. Healthcare providers often weigh the benefits of maternal treatment against the risks to the infant.
Monitoring and Recommendations
Given these potential risks, it is crucial for pregnant individuals or those planning to become pregnant to discuss their medication regimen with healthcare providers. The decision to continue or discontinue Cymbalta should be made collaboratively, considering both the mother’s mental health needs and the potential risks to the newborn.
In summary, while Cymbalta can be an effective treatment for various conditions, its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding requires careful consideration and monitoring. The potential effects on newborns, including withdrawal symptoms and possible congenital issues, underscore the importance of medical guidance in managing these situations.

Can Cymbalta cause birth defects?

Based on this observational register-based nationwide study with data from Sweden and Denmark, no increased risk of major or minor congenital malformations or stillbirth was associated with exposure to duloxetine during pregnancy.

What is the minimum age for Cymbalta?

Duloxetine is used to treat depression in adults and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD; excessive worry and tension that disrupts daily life and lasts for 6 months or longer) in adults and children 7 years of age and older.

What happens to breastfed babies on antidepressants?

There have been a small number of case reports of adverse events in infants exposed to antidepressants in breast milk, including jitteriness, irritability, excessive crying, sleep disturbance, and feeding problems.

Does Cymbalta affect birth control?

Duloxetine does not stop any type of contraception from working, including the combined contraceptive pill, progestogen-only pill and emergency contraception. However, if duloxetine makes you sick (vomit) or have severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, your contraceptive pills may not protect you from pregnancy.

What is the downside of Cymbalta?

Cymbalta (duloxetine) is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) antidepressant. It can cause several side effects, including nausea, dry mouth, and drowsiness. Many Cymbalta side effects improve over time as your body gets used to the medication.

What happens if a child takes Cymbalta?

Call your child’s doctor right away if your child has agitation; change in balance; confusion; hallucinations; fever; a fast or abnormal heartbeat; Duloxetine 7/14 Page 8 flushing; muscle twitching or stiffness; seizures; shivering or shaking; sweating a lot; severe diarrhea, upset stomach, or throwing up; or very bad …

What does Cymbalta do to hormones?

It increases the amount of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, hormones that help regulate mood and pain. It belongs to a group of medications called SNRIs.

What is Cymbalta neonatal withdrawal?

If you take duloxetine in the weeks before birth it can sometimes cause short-term withdrawal symptoms and, very rarely, breathing problems in the baby. Your baby will be checked after birth and given additional care if needed.

Can duloxetine cause birth defects?

There is no evidence that use of duloxetine in pregnancy causes miscarriage, birth defects, stillbirth, preterm birth, or low infant birth weight.

Does Cymbalta affect breastfeeding?

Triplehuntress3, Cymbalta is rated an L3-limited data-probably compatible. The amount that transfers into breast milk is only 0.1-1.1 % of your dose. We think this medication is safe as long as your infant is not symptomatic. Monitor for sedation or irritability, not waking to feed/poor feeding and weight gain.