Abstract

Antipsychotic drugs and pregnant or breastfeeding women: the issues for mental health nurses Mental illness can affect up to 10% of pregnant women, and women with a pre-existing psychiatric condition are more likely to experience a relapse of symptoms during pregnancy. Antipsychotic drugs are an important part of the treatment of psychotic illnesses; however, their safety with pregnant or breastfeeding women has not been fully established. Given that these drugs will be ordered for pregnant or breastfeeding women diagnosed with a psychosis or with a pre-existing psychiatric condition, it is imperative that mental health nurses and others administering the drugs, or caring for those taking the drugs, be aware of their consequences. A review of the available evidence, albeit at times contradictory, is presented along with a discussion of the implications for mental health nurses. Recommendations for consideration when administering or counselling women regarding the use of antipsychotic drugs in pregnancy or when breastfeeding, are also included.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.