J.P. asks from Saint Louis, MO on March 17, 2007
Alternative(s) to Wellbutrin XL?
I'm about to have our second child in a little over a month. I've suffered from anxiety for several years now & it seems to be getting worse again (big surprise, while about to deliver baby #2 within 17 months of baby #1! LOL!).
Anyhow, I've taken Wellbutrin XL in the past and my doc wanted to put me back on it now (before I deliver) to prevent PPD. It's apparently a Class B drug which means it's safe to take while pregnant and breastfeeding.
However, I've just learned that my insurance company no longer covers most of the cost of this medication (danged insurance!). Has anyone had success with a similar drug while pregnant and/or breastfeeding?
THANK YOU!
So What Happened?™
Thank you for your replies! I'm going to try the generic for Wellbutrin SR and see if that's as effective as the XL.
More Answers
A.G. answers from St. Louis on March 18, 2007
Hi J.,
I have been taking 50 mg daily of Zoloft for PPD since my first first baby boy was born last June. I have been exclusively breastfeeding for almost 9 months (not by choice, he doesn't want cereal or strained foods still) and he has had a WONDERFUL temperament with no issues at all. I tried wellbutrin for two weeks in November just to see the difference and it caused my mood to be angry and short tempered most of the time. I returned to Zoloft and I feel less anxious again. I hope this information helps you with your decision. Also, I have read in multiple resources (including on WebMD) that taking Wellbutrin and Zoloft BEFORE birth is not advisable. Once the baby is born, the medications are ok to start taking regularly.
A.
L.K. answers from St. Louis on March 19, 2007
There is a generic Wellbutrin that you can ask your doctor or pharmisist about.
L.
G.F. answers from St. Louis on March 18, 2007
Hi,
I took Zoloft during and after pregnancy while breastfeeding and It has worked good for me for anxiety and depression. It is also safe for breastfeeding, as very little of it is found in breast milk. Take Care.
A.B. answers from St. Louis on March 20, 2007
My husband has had anxiety issues for years (not depression) and Lexapro has worked really well for him. I don't know if you can take it pregnant, but I know our insurance covers it, so you might want to ask your doctor.
J.L. answers from St. Louis on March 18, 2007
I was on Prozac for PPD (not sure how it can handle the anxiety aspect) ... through my whole 2nd pregnancy and things turned out great! It is very inexpensive because you can get it in generic. My daughter is now 3 and fine!
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