Pregnant women suffering from depression and other psychiatric illnesses have the extra concern of possible effects on the baby as well as effective treatment for their condition. Effexor, whose generic name is venlafaxine, is an antidepressant prescribed to treat depression, anxiety disorder and panic disorder. In addition to its main effect of improving mood by helping restore the balance of certain substances in the brain, Effexor can cause undesirable side effects for the pregnant mother and may cause problems for the baby.
Increased Blood Pressure
Effexor can raise blood pressure in some patients. This is particularly concerning for pregnant women because high blood pressure, if untreated, can damage a woman's kidneys, liver and brain. Elevated blood pressure also increases the risk for pregnancy complications such as low birthweight and preterm delivery. Online product information for Effexor states that the user's blood pressure should be controlled before beginning Effexor treatment.
Constipation
Online product information for Effexor indicates that at least 10 percent of patients who use Effexor report constipation. Constipation is a symptom already all too familiar to pregnant women. Pregnancy-related constipation, largely caused by increased levels of the hormone progesterone and the pressure of the growing uterus on the rectum, combined with medication-related constipation can make for an unhappy mother-to-be. BabyCenter.com recommends plenty of fiber, water and exercise to help reduce constipation.
Nausea
Surging hormone levels are largely to blame for nausea, and Effexor may increase nausea. Pregnant women using Effexor may wish to speak with their doctor about anti-nausea medications, which can be safely taken during pregnancy. Other methods to reduce nausea include eating bland foods, consuming small amounts throughout the day rather than a few large meals, and sniffing lemon or ginger.
Increased Risk of Suicide
The use of antidepressants, including Effexor, can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. Any person taking an antidepressant should be observed closely for signs that their depression could be worsening or that they are becoming suicidal, particularly at the beginning of antidepressant therapy. Given the prevalence of depression in women during and after pregnancy, the psychiatric status of pregnant women should always be monitored carefully, especially when taking a medication such as Effexor.
Possible Birth Defects
It is unclear whether Effexor can harm an unborn baby. Drugs.com warns that Effexor may be harmful to an unborn baby when taken during the third trimester of pregnancy, but it does not specify which problems can occur. OBFocus.com comments that considering the small number of human pregnancies exposed to Effexor reported in the literature, no conclusions can be drawn regarding the risks of Effexor to a baby. As with any medication, if you are using Effexor and become pregnant, you should discuss with your doctor whether you should continue the medication or possibly switch to another safer medication.
Member Comments