Selective Serotonin-Reuptake Inhibitors and Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn

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Abstract
Several publications have recently reported an association between maternal treatment with selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) late in pregnancy and adverse outcomes in infants. These outcomes have included persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN), as reported by Chambers et al. (Feb. 9 issue),1 and the neonatal abstinence syndrome, a condition found in infants born with drug dependency.2 Also, the Food and Drug Administration recently published a public health advisory concerning increased rates of congenital defects (and, specifically, heart defects) after the use of the SSRI paroxetine early in pregnancy.3 However, little information is available on the frequency of SSRI treatment during pregnancy.4