SSRIs To The Rescue For Postpartum Depression – Part I

Postpartum Depression (PPD) is the most common forms of depression that needs to be treated promptly for the healthy well-being of both the mother and the baby. If untreated, PPD could have dire effects on the child’s development.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are widely been used as the preliminary line of treatment for tackling depression as they have proven efficacy in majority of individuals and negligible associated side effects. Sertraline (Zoloft) and paroxetine (Paxil) are generally recommended for those women that are breast-feeding. SSRI’s are additionally employed for relief from extreme anxiety and depression in pregnant women and in averting PPD in those women in high risk of developing PPD.

SSRIs function as mood enhancers by raising the brain’s usage of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Noticeable favourable changes are noted in some women within one to three weeks of starting on antidepressant medications while others could take up to two months. It is crucial to get in touch with one’s doctor if there is no improvement by three weeks of commencing on anti-depressants.

Though proven effectual in majority of people, it has a few side effects that are noted both in the mother and the baby.

SSRIs Maternal side effects could comprise of:

• Feeling nauseous, variations in appetite and decrease in weight.
• Edginess, anxiety.
• Headache.
• Insomnia and fatigue.
• Low libido or decreased sex drive or ability.
• Giddiness.
• Tremors.
• Rare signs of occurrence of rashes.
• Atypical increase in weight that could occur with protracted use.

These symptoms tend to subside with time. However, SSRI treatment is not advisable for those having seizure disorders or a past of mania inclusive of bipolar disorder that could worsen when SSRI’s are started.

Side effects in breast-fed infants whose mothers are on antidepressant course generally do not occur, but they might. Breastfeeding mothers that are taking antidepressants must speak to one’s doctor and the child’s paediatrician regarding any kind of side effects one would need to be vigilant about.

Experts have not been completely sure regarding the safety of antidepressant treatment during breast feeding. Though, research does point to SSRI’s safety. Sertraline (Zoloft) is usually the first option during breast-feeding. Side effects have solely been noted in breast-fed children that have had exposure to fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem), citalopram (Celexa) or paroxetine (Paxil) like taking lesser feeds, tetchiness and increased bouts of crying.

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