Are any antidepressants safe for breastfeeding women?
Yes, according to recent research. Specialists most commonly prescribe Zoloft or Paxil, two of the newer serotonin-enhancing drugs. Prozac is not commonly prescribed, however, because it is metabolized more slowly and may accumulate in a baby’s immature liver. Lithium, one of the medications for bipolar disorder, should not be prescribed for breastfeeding women. Are antidepressants safe for pregnant women? The latest research shows no heightened risk of birth defects in pregnant women taking Prozac, Paxil or the older tricyclic antidepressants, Gentry said. In fact, given the developmental risks facing children of depressed mothers — including social delays — some researchers say careful prescription of certain antidepressants during pregnancy may be the safest course. But doctors need to weigh each woman’s risks and benefits individually.
