Most psychiatric illnesses do not return immediately upon discontinuation of the drug. If your physician approves, do everything possible to avoid medication during the first trimester of pregnancy because it is the most critical time for fetal organ development. If psychiatric medication is prescribed, it is better to use one that has been marketed for 20 years or more. Specific types of medications have particular risks. Sedatives such as Valium or Klonopin and anticonvulsants such as Tegretol and Depakene should be avoided.
Anticonvulsants cause neural tube defects like spinal bifida and anencephaly.
Antipsychotics such as Haldol and Prolixin should be prescribed only in small doses. Antidepressants may cause rare cases of infant distress such as muscle spasms, fast heart rate, congestive heart failure, and respiratory disease. When used at the end of pregnancy, lithium may cause lethargic and listless babies with irregular suck and startle responses. These newborns may also appear bluish due to problems with oxygen absorption in the blood. When used in the second trimester, lithium is safe.