Does taking venlafaxine increase the chance of miscarriage?
Miscarriage is common and can occur in any pregnancy for many different reasons. One study suggested that people taking venlafaxine might have an increased chance of miscarriage, while other studies have not. Depression itself might increase the chance of miscarriage, which makes it hard to know if the medication, the condition it treats, or other factors are the cause of a miscarriage.
Does taking venlafaxine 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. While some studies suggest a possible increased chance of birth defects when taking venlafaxine during pregnancy, several large studies have not. If there is an increased chance of birth defects above the background risk with use of venlafaxine in pregnancy, it is likely to be small.
Does taking venlafaxine in pregnancy increase the chance of other pregnancy-related problems?
Some studies have suggested a higher chance for preterm delivery (birth before week 37) when venlafaxine is used in pregnancy, while other studies have not. When depression is untreated or not well-treated during pregnancy, there could be an increased chance of pregnancy complications. For more information, please see MotherToBaby fact sheet on depression here.
One study found an increased chance of developing gestational diabetes in individuals taking venlafaxine during pregnancy while a second study did not. For more information on gestational diabetes, see our fact sheet here.
I need to take venlafaxine throughout my entire pregnancy. Will it cause withdrawal symptoms in my baby after birth?
The use of venlafaxine during pregnancy can cause temporary symptoms in newborns soon after birth. These symptoms are sometimes referred to as withdrawal and can include jitteriness, increased muscle tone, irritability, changes in sleep patterns, tremors, seizures, trouble eating, and problems with breathing. Some babies might need to stay in the hospital for several days. Most of the time these effects are mild and go away on their own. Not all babies exposed to venlafaxine will have these symptoms. It is important that your healthcare providers know you are taking venlafaxine so that if symptoms occur your baby can get the care that is best for them.
Does taking venlafaxine in pregnancy affect future behavior or learning for the child?
It is not known if venlafaxine increases the chance for behavior or learning issues for the child. One study found no difference in IQ or behavioral problems in 4 year olds who had been exposed to venlafaxine in pregnancy when compared to children whose mothers had depression but were not treated during pregnancy. A second study found a small increase in the chances of autism spectrum disorder in children exposed to venlafaxine during pregnancy. However, it is not clear whether this was related to the medication, the condition being treated, or other factors.
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