[mamabugx2]

hi! I haven't posted in a looooooong time, so I thought I would reintroduce myself. I am currently 31 weeks pg

My doctor prescribed Zoloft to me yesterday for BAD anxiety. He left it at my discretion to take it... I am so worried about taking anything during pg and nursing... Has anyone had experince with Zoloft during these times? Also, is there a safer med to take?

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[Queen of Cups]

I haven't researched it personally, but in discussing ttc with a midwife last year (she left the practice, though, so I'm seeing someone else now), I mentioned that I have struggled with an eating disorder in the past. She said that if it became a problem again while I was pregnant that she would prescribe Zoloft. So, apparently it didn't seem to be an issue in her eyes.

 

[GoodWillHunter]

You know, I'm taking Effexor right now (9 weeks pg) and my OB has told me in the past I should switch, but I didn't. I read in the PDR (Physician's Desk Reference) that if it is necessary, it can be continued throughout pg. If a midwife is saying Zoloft is okay, I should think that it is. Also, the prime time for anything to affect you would be the first twelve weeks of pg. You're obviously past that. Also, anxiety is bad for the babe in question. You'll be okay. So will your babe.

 

[DarkHorseMama]

I have been taking Zoloft for more than four years now, including during my DD's pregnancy and subsequent breastfeeding. Zoloft is considered safe during pregnancy (Category B drug) and is the preferred medication for breastfeeding mothers who need antidepressants. Initially when pregnant, I had some concerns about remaining on the medication. After conducting my own research and discussing the situation with my then-OB the absolute conclusion was to continue on the Zoloft. The stress and emotional outbursts without the meds were considered to be potentially more affective to a fetus than the meds themselves. Again, with this pregnancy, my midwife and I both are in agreement that the benefits of remaining on my medication are worth staying the course. Currently I am taking 75 mg.

PP link regarding pregnancy and Zoloft:
http://www.parentsplace.com/fertilit...100818,00.html

I do have a few links available for breastfeeding and antidepressants.

http://www.kellymom.com/meds/antidep...hale10-02.html

http://www.kellymom.com/meds/antidepressant-ref.html

http://www.kellymom.com/ppd/ppdnews.html

I will continue to remain on my meds throughout this pregnancy and while breastfeeding beyond. My DD still nurses a few times a day and is absolutely sharp as a tack. There has never been an indication of problems, mild or otherwise, caused by her exposure to Zoloft. As a mother, I am much more focused and calm and, I daresay, loving when I am on antidepressants. The mood swings and anger outbursts are curbed and I am a better parent for it.

PS: Some people (myself included) have a few days of being "off kilter" after starting the meds while your body readjusts to the different serotonin levels. Don't be surprised if this happens and it should go away within a week. My prescribing doctor never made mention of it, but a good friend who had been taking SSRIs clued me in to the possibility. I'm glad she did, otherwise I probably would have stopped taking the Zoloft thinking, "If THIS is the way I'm going to feel forever, then forget it!"

HTH!