Venlafaxine Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Warnings

Brand names: Effexor, Effexor XR

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 11, 2023.

Venlafaxine Pregnancy Warnings

Animal studies have revealed increased perinatal toxicity and fetotoxicity at doses potentially correlated with maternal toxicity. There are no controlled data in human pregnancy.

Some neonates exposed to SNRIs (Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors), or SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) late in the third trimester had clinical findings including respiratory distress, cyanosis, apnea, seizures, temperature instability, feeding difficulty, vomiting, hypoglycemia, hypotonia, hypertonia, hyperreflexia, tremor, jitteriness, irritability, and constant crying. This clinical picture is consistent with either direct toxic effect of SSRIs and SNRIs, drug discontinuation syndrome, or serotonin syndrome.

To monitor maternal-fetal outcomes of pregnant women exposed to antidepressant therapy, a National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants has been established. Healthcare providers are encouraged to prospectively register patients. For additional information: https://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry/antidepressants/

AU TGA pregnancy category B2: Drugs which have been taken by only a limited number of pregnant women and women of childbearing age, without an increase in the frequency of malformation or other direct or indirect harmful effects on the human fetus having been observed. Studies in animals are inadequate or may be lacking, but available data show no evidence of an increased occurrence of fetal damage.

US FDA pregnancy category C: Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus.

AU TGA pregnancy category: B2
US FDA pregnancy category: C

Comments:
-A pregnancy exposure registry is available.
-Patients should notify their healthcare provider if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during treatment.
-Some newborns exposed to this drug late in the third trimester have developed complications requiring tube-feeding, respiratory support, prolonged hospitalization, or persistent pulmonary hypertension in the newborn (PPHN).
-When treating a pregnant woman with this drug during the third trimester, the healthcare provider should carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of therapy.

See references

Venlafaxine Breastfeeding Warnings

A decision should be made to discontinue breast-feeding or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

Excreted into human milk: Yes

Comments:
-There have been post-marketing reports of breast-fed infants who experienced crying, irritability, and abnormal sleep patterns.
-The American Academy of Pediatrics classifies other antidepressants as agents for which the effect on nursing infants is unknown but may be of concern.

See references

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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