paxil & pregnancy

  My daughter is nineteen and was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder in Dec. of 1998. The way we found out about the disorder, was a suicide attempt [overdose], on her part. After she was released from intensive care, she was placed in a phyciatric hospital, where the diagnosis was made. Her doctors perscribed Paxil [20 mgs]. The Paxil has been working pretty good for her, until she was taken off of it, due to she became pregnant. She has been off of the Paxil for approximately 2 months now, and things are going down hill fast. Her suicidal tendencies are starting to reoccur, her spending sprees have increased, the depression has increased, as well as the compulsiveness. She is in the beginning of her second trimester. Her doctors have issued an order to put her back on the Paxil.
  My question is can the Paxil harm the baby in any way and are there any reports or books that we can get to help us with this issue.

[HFHS M.D.-JK]

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Dear Stacy,
It is natural to be concerned about medication usage during pregnancy.  Most women prefer not to take medications during pregnancy since they are concerned about any possible adverse effects on their baby.  I hope that your daughter is visiting her obstetrician regularly to make sure she and her baby are doing well physically.  It sounds, unfortunately, that your daughter is not doing well without psychiatric treatment at this point.  
The most sensitive period for drug effects to the baby is usually during the first trimester.  That is the time when organs are being formed.  You have asked about Paxil (known generically as paroxetine).  It is considered a Class