antidepressants

Hi,

I'd like to know if there are chances the father's medication (antidepressants: Coaxil(Tianeptine) and Carbamazepine) might be a cause of birth defects.

Thank you!

[Lisa Kessler, MS, CGC]

Medications taken by the father may be present in the semen in some situations, but at this time there is no evidence that this could cause an increased risk for birth defects.  Some medications or workplace exposures may impact sperm quality and fertility, and a small number of studies have associated smoking, recreational drug use, and heavy alcohol use with possible developmental problems in the fetus. More research is needed to quantify the risks, if any, of paternal exposures for birth defects. You can find more information at the website of  OTIS (Organization of Teratology Information Specialists).