Pregnancy Xanax vs Atarax

[greatlordduke]

My Doctor took me off xanax po and put me on atarax po for mild anxiety. He says I should not take xanax while trying to or while I am pregnant but he say atarax is ok. I read in my drug book that it is contraindicated in pregnancy. I spoke with a pharmacist who said though there is not much info on this, there is some and it says. Out of 50,000 births 10 births had some degree of defect. What should I do? My Doctor says that this is the medication that he gives to his pregnant and breastfeeding moms. Help Please. Deb

[BSNtobe2009]

No one here can give you medical advice, especially me, b/c I'm not a nurse, but I can give you some common sense advice.

When you say "your doctor" do you mean your PCP or your OB-GYN? If it's your OB-GYN, I would get a second opinion from another one since you are pregnant. I really think it's best a specialist makes that call for you.

It's a personal decision, but if your anxiety is really and truly mild, I would also discuss with the OB-GYN the possibility of discontinuing it just to see how it goes. I refused to take anything but pre-natals during my pregnancy.

Ultimately, you have to do what you are comfortable with, but consulting with your OB-GYN will give you an educated and informed decision.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Above poster is correct - we can not give medical advice.

[P_RN, ADN, RN]

Atarax is vistaril. Xanax is a benzo. I had a coworker who took valium before she knew she was pg. First few weeks a lot goes on.. and it did affect the childs development. You need to really understand that we as nurses know bunches, sometimes too much, but the doctor is the only one who has the right to give medical advice.