Abstract
Decision on drug treatment of mental disorders in pregnancy and breastfeeding represents a clinical problem. Psychiatrists have to weigh the potential risks of drugs for the fetus and infant versus known risks of untreated disorder.
Treatment discontinuation during pregnancy frequently results in a relapse of schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety disorders. The available information on teratogenic effects, neonatal toxicity, withdrawal symptoms, or long-term neurobehavioral effects of drugs on fetus and infant is based mostly on anecdotal case vignettes, case series, drug registries, and epidemiological studies.
The paper reviews up-to-date data of impact of mental disorders on pregnancy and on safety of antipsychotics, antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and anxiety drugs on fetus and newborn. Summarized are basic treatment recommendations for drug management of mental disorders in pregnancy and lactation.