What Is Duloxetine?
The active ingredient in Cymbalta is duloxetine, which is a type of antidepressant known as a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, or SNRI. Duloxetine is used to treat major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and a few other conditions. It can be habit-forming, so it’s important to only take it as prescribed by your doctor.
Can You Take Cymbalta While Pregnant?
First, let’s answer the general question: can you take Cymbalta while pregnant? The good news is that you can usually continue taking Cymbalta throughout pregnancy. In fact, the American Pregnancy Association (and the NHS in the UK) recommends that pregnant women with depression be treated with antidepressants like duloxetine if necessary.
What Risks Are Associated With Taking It During Pregnancy?
Although you can take duloxetine during pregnancy, that doesn’t mean that it’s completely risk-free. All medications come with some risks, and duloxetine is no different. Some of the potential risks associated with Cymbalta and pregnancy are:
- an increased risk of bleeding after delivery (if you’re taking the medication in the last month of pregnancy);
- an increased risk of high blood pressure disorders;
- short-term withdrawal symptoms in the baby;
- breathing problems in the baby (very rarely).
Still, can you take Cymbalta while pregnant if you need it? Absolutely, and you should if your doctor thinks it’s best for you. Depression can be extremely harmful to both mother and child, so don’t suffer in silence – get the help you need. Your baby will most likely be just fine.
What to Do If You’re Concerned With Yours or Your Baby’s Health?
If you’re currently taking duloxetine and are worried about how it might affect your pregnancy, talk to your doctor. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits of continuing the medication or finding an alternative. The most important thing is that you get the treatment you need to stay healthy and happy during pregnancy.
Some alternatives you can try are:
- talking to a therapist;
- practicing relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation;
- getting more sleep and exercise.
There are also antidepressants that have been studied more thoroughly in pregnant women, so your doctor might prescribe one of those if they think it’s best. All in all, can you take Cymbalta while pregnant? Yes, if you’ve discussed it with your doctor and they think it’s the right decision for you.
Conclusion
In short, can you take Cymbalta while pregnant? Yes, although it does carry some risks if you take it in the third trimester. Be sure to speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits before making any decisions. They can help you come up with a plan that’s best for both you and your baby. Congratulations on your new little bundle of joy!
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