An FDA panel spread misinformation about SSRI use in pregnancy, alarming doctors

Source: NPR

August 1, 2025 6:00 AM ET


Nearly one in five pregnant women and new moms in this country suffers from anxiety and depression. And 6-8% of pregnant women are prescribed a group of antidepressants called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).

But a recent expert panel organized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration cast doubt on the safety of SSRIs — even though these drugs are largely considered safe by healthcare providers.

Those comments have sparked a swath of criticism from a number of prominent medical societies.

"Untreated or undertreated depression during pregnancy carries health risks, such as suicide, preterm birth, preeclampsia, and low birth weight," the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine wrote in a statement late last month. "Unfortunately, misinformation about depression and its treatment creates confusion and doubt among patients and the public leading to unnecessary barriers to care."

Read more: https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2025/08/01/nx-s1-5487710/fda-panel-ssri-antidepressants-pregnancy-perinatal