Does sertraline cross the placenta? (+3 other factors)

In this article, we will answer the question ‘Does Sertraline cross the placenta? We will also consider other topics such as understanding what is Sertraline used for, do drugs cross the placenta, the impact of Sertraline on foetal development and alternate treatment options for depression in pregnancy.

Does sertraline cross the placenta?

Yes, Sertraline does cross the placenta during pregnancy. Sertraline, which is an antidepressant, can freely cross the placenta and enter the foetal circulation.

If you are experiencing mood disorders during your pregnancy, it is important not to self-medicate as most drugs can cross the placental barrier. Nevertheless, Sertraline is routinely prescribed during pregnancy to combat depression-like syndrome.

It is important to address mental health problems properly during and post your pregnancy. Impaired mental health can affect the mother’s and the baby’s health adversely. It is important to speak to your obstetrician if you get pregnant while being on Sertraline.

It is crucial to weigh the pros and cons of continuing with the treatment and this can be achieved by the doctor knowing your history and understanding your symptoms.

Does Sertraline affect foetal development?

Exposure to antidepressants while in the womb can result in neonatal symptoms from the central nervous system, respiratory system or gastrointestinal system [4]

According to research, some complications occur more when the mother is on Sertraline or in general SSRI therapy [5]. There can be a higher chance of babies born with low birth weight or of preterm delivery. In very rare cases, sertraline may affect the development of the baby’s heart.

What is sertraline used for in pregnancy?

Sertraline is an antidepressant which falls under the category of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI). Sertraline increases the level of serotonin in the brain which creates a sense of well-being and is a mood improver [1].

Depression can manifest in various ways during pregnancy for many women. Many women may experience a diminished interest in doing daily chores and usual jobs. They may also find it difficult to concentrate and there could be a drop in their energy levels. Shifts in sleep patterns and alterations in appetite may also occur.

Even though Sertraline is used throughout the pregnancy, its use in the third trimester may increase the risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension and withdrawal symptoms in neonates [2]

While Sertraline is considered to be safe during pregnancy, your doctor will prescribe it only if the potential benefits surpass the risks to the foetus, considering the dangers associated with untreated anxiety and depression.

Should you take Sertraline during pregnancy if prescribed by your doctor?

If your healthcare provider feels that the use of Sertraline during pregnancy outweighs the risks for your baby, it is okay to use this antidepressant. Treatment of mental problems during pregnancy is of paramount importance.

It is important to speak to your doctor if you were taking Sertraline before getting pregnant and stopped. Proper assessment of symptoms will help the doctor to decide if Sertraline is still required.

Just make sure you do not stop your antidepressant cold turkey or without informing your healthcare provider. Stopping the medication suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms in most of the cases. There is also a risk of relapse if the medication is not tapered off gradually.

Conclusion

We conclude that even though Sertraline crosses the placenta, the medication should not be stopped in pregnancy without informing your doctor. It is important to assess the risk factors of taking sertraline against stopping the medication and an informed decision should be made by the doctor.

References