[Mother2be]

I was diagnosed about 2 years ago with a severe anxiety disorder, after having a horrible panic attack that caused my heart to jump out of my chest.

I was about 28 years old and a type II diabetic. I was put on lexapro 10mg and it worked well in keeping me even. All my emotions went down and I had no more panic.

Last year I got preganant and lost the baby while on lexapro, though my doc doesn't think that was the cause necessarily. Never-the-less, I've been off of lexapro for about a year or so now, and had no panic attacks until late last night--I wound up in the ER again after my heart nearly pounded out of my chest. I am 23 weeks pregnant with a beautiful baby boy, and 30 years old.

After talking w/ my regular doc and my ob, they both suggested that I go back on the 10 mg of lexapro. They both said to me that it would be safe in preganancy, and I generally trust them, but I have read threads from folks who've had beautiful babies despite being on ssri's and I've also read some medical studies done with pregnant animals, as well as hearing some horror stories, about pregnancy and ssri's.

I'm really torn because if I don't start back on my lexapro, then I'm sure to have more anxiety attacks. But if I start back on lexapro am I hurting or even potentially killing my baby? And are there any side-effects for the pregnant mom from an ssri like lexapro?

I know no one can answer this question for sure, but I'm hoping that someone out there has been through this and possibly has some advice for me, or can tell me how they're pregnancy went, and if they're baby was okay or not.

I'm almost in my third trimester, and I'm really worried about my babies and "my" health. Please respond if you have any advice. THANKYOU!

[bella_mania]

First of all...Congratulations on your pregnancy!

I was on Lexapro for about 9 month but never while pregnant so I can't give you any practical advice. But, I felt compelled to reply to your post.

I'm sure your doctors are not going to tell you something is safe when it isn't. But, you still sound very concerned and worried and honestly, I would be too if I were you. I'm not too sure why you think you are bound to have more panic attacks when you haven't had one for over a year or so. Who is to say that you will have another one while still pregnant. You are 32 weeks pregnant now...you've got 2 months to go. You might not have another attack in that time. If I were you, and since you're worried, I would wait and see if you get another attack before making your decision.

Hang in there and please let us know how you're doing.

[auntybiotic]

Congrats.
DO NOT go on Lexapro...your poor baby will suffer horrible withdrawals. Go to this forum and read others experiences. There are NON MEDICATION ways to deal with anxiety.

Do Not Harm your unborn child.Doctors know nothing.my child is addicted to this Lexapro that her doctor said was safe and effective!!!!!!!!