Q&A: Risks of untreated depression during pregnancy ‘far outweigh’ risks of SSRIs

Key takeaways:

An FDA panel recently raised concerns over antidepressant use during pregnancy.

An expert said these treatments’ effectiveness are well-documented and risks for adverse effects are low.

Members of an FDA expert panel last month discussed the risks and benefits of using selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, for depression during pregnancy.

The panelists questioned the safety and efficacy of SSRIs, with some saying they increase the risk for birth defects and pregnancy complications.

An FDA panel recently raised concerns over antidepressant use during pregnancy. Image: Adobe Stock

Outside experts condemned many of the panelists’ claims, including ACOG, which called them “outlandish and unfounded.”

Healio spoke with Tiffany A. Moore Simas, MD, MPH, MEd,