Bipolar disorder and Pregnancy

[Rtyler]

I am currently on Wellbutrin twice a day ( I prefer to 1x a day).  I am also 12 wks pregnant.  This is the first pregnancy where I will be taking meds.  What questions should I ask my M.D. to make sure there are no complications or side effects on the unborn child?  I was also on topomax (topamax) and clonazepam.  I discontinued those because of the warning lable until I speak to my M.D.

[ILADVOCATE]

Your psychiatrist can inform whether Wellbutrin is safe to take during pregnancy and also should speak to your OB-GYN. Its best not to discontinue medications on your own and especially stopping Klonopin abruptly as its a benzo can have severe physical withdrawal symptoms. Ask your psychiatrist what medications could replace what you take and are safe and inform them what medications you've stopped.

[TreyBay]

I took Wellbutrin during my first pregnancy.  It was smooth sailing.  In fact, it helped with some of the normal PG mood swings.  Everyone is different, but I would suggest that if you continue the the Wellbutrin, you ask your doctor to report your progress and side effects.  It was listed as a Category C when I was pregnant b/c there were no studies on PG women and the effect on the infant.  My doctor did report my pregnancy.  I had a beautiful baby girl - healthy as can be - good eater/sleeper.  

Best of luck to you!  Enjoy the road to motherhood.

[Rtyler]

I'm going to visit my psychiatrist this week.  I'll be able to ask then.  The clonazepam was making me very sleepy so I've been off for about 2 wks but I'll talk to both M.D.'s on my next appt.  Thanks

[Rtyler]

Well this makes me feel alot better.  I attempted to use psych meds during my last preg but my nurse would keep telling me to pray!  I don't want a repeat of that...It was very difficult managing my emotions w/o the meds...Thanks for the extra confidence...I'll be seeing my M.D.'s this week...I'll keep u guys posted!