Birth defects related to Paxil during pregnancy

Rebecca Castell

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A year after Paxil manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline reclassified the drug to indicate a risk of birth defects, a group of obstetricians has declared that pregnant women and those who plan to become pregnant should steer clear of the drug. The antidepressant has been linked to heart defects when taken in the first trimester and other complications when taken later in pregnancy.

Use of Paxil and other antidepressants should only be used under close supervision of a doctor. While many women experience benefits from using the drugs, the benefits must carefully be weighed against the risks.