Celexa (or another SSRI) while pregnant?

amelyse39

I just got a positive pregnancy test yesterday and I'm nervous because I've been on 20mg of Celexa. I had a preconception appt with an OB two weeks ago & mentioned that I knew I had to stop taking the celexa and he said that I didnt need to stop taking it and that it was actually better for the baby to stay on it, if I suffered from anxiety because I would have a less stressful pregnancy and also could be prone to postnatal depression. 

I have a message into the nurse at my general dr who prescribed it for me to find out how to safely taper off of it. I want to see how I do without it (plus I'm starting counseling for my anxiety in a week which should help a lot) and if I absolutely need to, I can go back on it during the third trimester. If anything, I would like to stay off of it completely. I'm just worried because I've been on it since I conceived & I'll need to continue taking it for another few weeks to taper off of it. Anyone have experience with these drugs while pregnant?

happymommy1215

Hi, I had similar concerns and talked with several medical professionals prior to trying to get pregnant (OB, Psychiatrist and primary care). They were all very careful not to say it is "ok" to take these meds but they did say that if your anxiety is severe enough to affect your physical health then you have to decide if the benefits outweigh the risks. My anxiety was very severe so I decided to switch to a better studied (during pregnancy) medication which was Zoloft (the one I was on was Lexapro and not well-studied). I stayed on the lowest dose possible throughout my pregnancy and gave birth to a healthy baby girl.  Anxiety problems run in my family and I felt that I would be healthier on my medication.  It worked out.  I am now pregnant with #2 and am continuing on my medication.  I am hopeful to have the same healthy result.  It's a personal decision, and only you know your body.  Listen to your medical professionals and make an educated decision.  Best of luck!