Serotonin reuptake inhibitor-induced perinatal complications.

There are a growing number of concerns about the utilization of serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) in late pregnancy and the onset of perinatal complications. This review aimed to analyze and summarize the studies evaluating the risk of perinatal complications (such as low birth weight, preterm delivery, withdrawal or toxic phenomena, and other detrimental events/poor neonatal outcomes) related to maternal SRI use in late pregnancy. A computerized search of MEDLINE (1966-January 2007) and PsycINFO (1974-January 2007) databases was performed. Articles describing perinatal complications after late in utero exposure to SRIs were selected and also reviewed for additional references. Fifty studies met the inclusion criteria. Exposure to SRIs late in pregnancy is clearly associated with an increased risk of infants developing a constellation of symptoms, including CNS and respiratory effects, often requiring close infant observation and supportive or specific treatment in intensive care units. Such symptoms are not always due to toxic or withdrawal reactions. Indeed, some evidence suggests that SRIs may interfere with the physiology of the respiratory system and parasympathetic activity in neonates. Of the most methodologically relevant studies reviewed, 50% have been published in the last 3 years. Hence, it is possible that further concerning data will become available in the future. For these reasons, the opportunity of tapering and discontinuing SRIs in late pregnancy should be taken into consideration, although to date the evidence to support such a clinical decision is preliminary.