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Effects of Cortisone and Celexa on early pregnancy & gestati

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Effects of Cortisone and Celexa on early pregnancy & gestati
Posted: 05-07-07 01:28am

My main concern is this: There is a "slight" possibility that I could be pregnant (approximately 4 weeks) and am concerned about the effects of both the cortisone shots I received (3 weeks ago) for back injury and the anti-depression medication that I am taking. I am sick with worry that if I am indeed pregnant this may cause birth defects. What's the data with respect to the affects of cortisone and Celexa on early gestation?


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DoctorAnswer
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Pregnancy Answer A2729
Posted: 05-14-07 06:28am

You wrote:

"List of pre-existing conditions: depression; previous pregnancy (13 years ago) required a regiment of progesterone shots to accelerate the Hcg levels to continue the pregnancy beyond the 12th week. Prior to that live birth, I had three miscarriages at around 10-12 weeks gestation.

List of other diseases, conditions, or injuries and their treatment: recent back, shoulder and neck injury which required three cortisone shots to trigger point areas approximately three weeks ago. Also have had depression for the last 9 years and regularly taken anti-depressants.

Diagnosis that has been suggested: neck, back and shoulder strain/sprain
Current medical status: receiving physical therapy three times a week for shoulder, back and neck injury

Current medical treatment: Celexa 20 mgs daily for depression Cortisone shots (three) intramuscular"

In response to all of your queries, you can first take a home pregnancy test to confirm or exclude pregnancy. Cortisone is a hormone normally present in the body so it can’t cause any damage to the embryo.

The other drug you’ve taken, Celexa or citalopram, belongs to Category C of pregnancy medications which means that animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans. However, potential benefits for Category C durgs may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks. This means that you may take Celexa only if it is absolutely necessary. I don’t see such need in your case.

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