drug 5htp and pregnancy.... are there any risks?

[tweenyb]

Hiya

I suffer from fibromyalgi and am taking a drug called 5htp like many in my group.
However I was wondering if there are any known reasons why this should not be taken during pregnancy?

I hope that everyone is well and enjoying this sunny day

T x

[bednobs]

is it a prescribed drug?

[Sqad]

Debatable.......I would let my wife take it.....but let your GP give his advice.

[gemma1991]

hiya according to the british national formulary which is like the bible of medication which lists all medications, dosage and effects, it says that during pregnancy it is adviced not to use unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks. it says if this is taken during the third trimester there is a risk of neonatal withdrawal symptoms, particulary with fluoxetine and paroxetine. is there another name for the drug. see if you can ask your GP if there is an alternative drug which will do the same thing but is completely safe during pregnancy. i am actually a nurse and have used the british national formulary and typed straight out of it for you.
hope it helps
xxx

[ruthandsam]

I was prescribed tricyclic antidepressants which had the same warning as mentioned by gemma1991. The benefits definitely outweighed the risks for me. My daughter was born healthy and happy with no adverse effects. However, I had to seek the advice of the professionals again regarding if it was safe to breastfeed whilst taking them and I was told completely conflicting stories, so I decided not to breastfeed. Always seek the advice of professionals with regards to taking prescribed or over the counter drugs whilst trying to get pregnant/pregnant or breastfeeding as you probably know. All the best to you!! x