Psychotropic Drug Use in Pregnancy
Abstract
Based on statistical probability, psychotropic drug use by mothers who are pregnant or are nursing has little adverse consequence on the developing fetus or newborn. Even lithium, the psychotropic drug with the most clearly demonstrated teratogenic effect, is associated with relatively low fetal toxicity and malformations.
However, until better controlled studies evaluating both teratogenic effects and long-term toxic consequences of exposure to psychotropic drugs in utero or through breast milk are available, women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant and nursing mothers must be individually evaluated. Psychotropic drugs should be administered only when the risk of not treating the mother outweighs the risk of harming the baby.
Access content
To read the fulltext, please use one of the options below to sign in or purchase access.- Personal login
- Institutional Login
- Sign in via OpenAthens
- Register for access
-
Please login/register if you wish to pair your device and check access availability.
Not a subscriber?
PsychiatryOnline subscription options offer access to the DSM-5 library, books, journals, CME, and patient resources. This all-in-one virtual library provides psychiatrists and mental health professionals with key resources for diagnosis, treatment, research, and professional development.
Need more help? PsychiatryOnline Customer Service may be reached by emailing [email protected] or by calling 800-368-5777 (in the U.S.) or 703-907-7322 (outside the U.S.).