It’s true, women suffering from depression who stop taking their anti-depression medication, like Lexapro, can suffer a relapse into depression. In one JAMA study, for instance, women who discontinued use of antidepression medication during pregnancy had a greater risk of relapse during pregnancy (68%) than women who maintained antidepression medication throughout pregnancy (26%).
It’s important to note, however, that there’s also a significant risk in continuing to take Lexapro during pregnancy. A New England Journal of Medicine study found that children whose mother took antidepression medication, like Lexapro, during pregnancy were six times more likely to have persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN), a life-threatening lung condition found in infants.
With risks on either side, the question that emerges is, “Did your doctor talk to you about all of the risks associated with your medicinal regimen?” You deserve to have all the information at your disposal when making decisions that can affect your health – and the health of your unborn child. If the answer is, “No” and your child now suffers from a birth defect like PPHN, it may be time to call our expert attorneys. For your free consultation, call us at 1.866.545.8364 or email mn@fnlawfirm.com. Let us help you.