Pregnant

I have had a HUGE problem with anxiety all my life. The doctor put me on xanax. I am now pregnant and know I was taking it before. I had an axiety attack and absolutely HAD to do something to help... so I took a xanax. I am worried about the baby but I had to calm myself down somehow. Someone please let me know something. I am worried about the baby but what can I do to help with the attacks??

[heartfluttersflyawayplz]

i would talk to your dr. go to the pregant forum there they can help you as far as the drug. good luck

[spade22]

Xanax is a Class D drug which means positive evidence exists that shows this "can" damage the fetus - this does not mean it "will".  However, Xanax should NOT be taken during pregnancy unless the benefits greatly outweigh the risks.  That being said, it is unlikely that one Xanax pill will cause much harm - problems are likely to result for those that take the pill or a daily (or more) basis.

There are many other Class C drugs you can take during pregnancy to help control the anxiety.  They are designed to "prevent" you from having a panic attack, whereas Xanax is indicated to take as needed to "stop" a panic attack once it hits.  Class C drugs are much, much, safer to take than Class D drugs.

I suggest you talk to someone with a lot of experience in this area - a perinatal psychiatrist would be an excellent start.  They can assess your situation, and discuss other medicine options with you which are safer for the baby as well as give you techniques to help you calm yourself during the panic attack.  Talk therapy may also help.

I too have suffered from anxiety with panic attacks most of my life.  I am currently 4.5  months pregnant and was taking Zoloft daily before I got pregnant as Xanax as needed.  I have taken neither since getting pregnant.  There have been some tough patches but overall I am doing pretty well.  I know if things get too bad I can ask the doctor for medication but am trying to do this without any medication.  The first trimester was definitely harder than the first due to the surge of hormones.  Hang in there.