Patient's question:
I have been taking antidepressants for over two years. Due to training reasons, I have been working in three shifts—day, night, and rotating—working 12-hour night shifts. Initially, I took one pill, but gradually, the dosage increased to three pills now. Occasionally, I forget to take them, and my mental state is not good either. In my situation, can I get pregnant? I want a baby, but is there any way to switch to a medication that is less harmful to the baby?Doctor's answer:
Clinical diagnostic trials of Paroxetine in early pregnancy and lactation: Animal studies have shown that this drug has no teratogenic effects and no selective embryotoxic effects. Recent epidemiological studies reporting on the outcomes of early pregnancy in the first three months of gestation have indicated a decreased risk of congenital malformations associated with the use of Paroxetine, particularly in the cardiovascular system (e.g., atrial and ventricular septal defects). It is recommended to wait at least one year before attempting to conceive after discontinuing the medication.