Does taking bupropion increase the chance of miscarriage?
Miscarriage is common and can occur in any pregnancy for many different reasons. Studies have not found a higher chance of miscarriage among women who were pregnant and taking bupropion compared to the background chance of miscarriage in the general population.
Does taking bupropion increase the chance of birth defects?
Every pregnancy starts out with a 3-5% chance of having a birth defect. This is called the background risk. Most of the available data about the use of bupropion in pregnancy does not suggest an increased chance of birth defects. Two studies have suggested a possible link between bupropion use in the first trimester and an increased chance of heart defects. However, these studies had limitations that make it hard to know if other factors might have caused the increase in heart defects. Overall, it is considered unlikely that using bupropion during pregnancy would increase the chance of birth defects above the background risk.
Does taking bupropion in pregnancy increase the chance of other pregnancy-related problems?
It is not known if bupropion can cause other pregnancy related problems such as preterm delivery (birth before week 37). In a small study of 30 women who were given bupropion during pregnancy for 12 weeks to help them quit smoking, no differences were seen in birth weight, length, head circumference, or Apgar score (grading system in newborns to define their wellbeing).
I need to take bupropion throughout my entire pregnancy. Will it cause withdrawal symptoms in my baby after birth?
The use of some antidepressants during pregnancy can cause temporary symptoms in newborns soon after birth. These symptoms are sometimes referred to as withdrawal. These symptoms can include irritability, jitteriness, trouble sleeping, or trouble eating. Not all babies exposed to antidepressants will have these symptoms. One study has suggested that the chance of these symptoms in newborns may be lower with bupropion than with some other antidepressants. It is important that your healthcare providers know you are taking bupropion so that if symptoms occur your baby can get the care that is best for them.
Does taking bupropion in pregnancy affect future behavior or learning for the child?
It is not known if bupropion increases the chance for behavior or learning issues for the child. One study suggested an association between exposure to bupropion during pregnancy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, there are many factors that contribute to ADHD. That makes it hard to know if it is the medication or other factors that can increase the chance of ADHD.
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