Continued or Discontinued Antidepressant Treatment during Pregnancy? A Single Center Long Term Follow-up Study

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the long-term follow-up data and risks associated with untreated depression and antidepressant use in pregnancy. Method: Patients who received consultation at the Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit at the Izmir Ataturk Research and Training Hospital for concerns related to use of medication during pregnancy between 2016 and 2020 were included in the study. During the initial interviews with the patients, data were collected regarding maternal characteristics and drug exposures. In follow-up calls after delivery, detailed information about pregnancy and birth outcomes was gathered. Results: Among 2323 pregnant women who sought consultation due to drug use during pregnancy, 17% were receiving antidepressant treatment (398/2323). In follow-up calls, 290 women were reached. In women who had received no therapy during pregnancy (n=240), rates of gestational diabetes (p=0.02), pregnancy depression (p=0.01), postpartum depression (p<0.0001), and decreased breast milk (p=0.02) were significantly higher compared to women who continued treatment (n=50). Conclusion: In pregnant individuals with an ongoing antidepressant use, the benefits and risks of antidepressant continuation should be weighed carefully.