I am taking citalopram and would like to get pregnant soon. Are there any risks?

Question

I have been taking citalopram 10mg since June to treat post-traumatic stress (I found my father passed away suddenly). I already have a little girl of almost 2 years old and we want to enlarge the family this year. Is there any risk in starting a pregnancy while taking medication?

Charles Dagenais · Accepted Answer

Hello, Citalopram is one of the drugs of the "SSRI" family with which we have the most information on its impact in pregnancy. In general, citalopram does not seem to be significantly associated with an increased risk of malformation. The data are reassuring, but a consequent follow-up should be done by your doctor and your pharmacist. Taking citalopram does not prevent you from planning a pregnancy. However, the choice of whether or not to continue the treatment before and at the beginning of a pregnancy should be discussed with your doctor to weigh the pros and cons. I invite you to discuss this with your pharmacist during your next visit. It is important that he or she be aware of your desire to have a second child. He or she will be able to discuss your situation in more detail and, if necessary, prescribe a vitamin supplement