Newborns may be adversely affected when pregnant women take Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitors ( SSRIs ) and other newer anti-depressants during the third trimester of pregnancy.

Health Canada advisory applies to the following anti-depressants: Bupropion ( whether used for depression or for smoking cessation ), Citalopram, Fluoxetine, Fluvoxamine, Mirtazapine, Paroxetine, Sertraline and Venlafaxine.

International and Canadian reports reveal that some newborns whose mothers took these medications during pregnancy have developed complications at birth requiring prolonged hospitalization, breathing support and tube feeding. Reported symptoms include: feeding and/or breathing difficulties, seizures, muscle rigidity, jitteriness and constant crying. In most cases, the newer anti-depressant was taken during the third trimester of pregnancy. These symptoms are consistent with either a direct adverse effect of the anti-depressant on the baby, or possibly a discontinuation syndrome caused by sudden withdrawal from the drug.

Source : Health Canada, 2004

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