Is Wellbutrin Safe During Pregnancy

Status

caution Last reviewed: 2026-05-16 · Confidence: moderate

Reason

Limited pregnancy data. Use only if benefits outweigh risks; consult your prescriber.

Drug Information

Brand Name
Wellbutrin
Generic Name
bupropion
Drug Class
antidepressant; norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor
FDA Category
N/A (PLLR narrative label)
Rx Status
prescription

Safe Amount

Dosage must be determined by your provider based on individual risk/benefit.

Effects

Pregnancy
Use only if benefit outweighs potential risk. Pregnancy registry exists for exposed patients.
Mother
May help depression or smoking cessation. Stopping suddenly can cause return of symptoms.
Baby
Most data do not show a higher birth defect risk overall. Some studies suggest a possible heart defect link in first trimester, but data are limited.

Trimester Notes

1st Trimester
Some studies raised a possible heart defect link, but evidence is limited and uncertain.
2nd Trimester
No specific trimester warning found in official labeling; use only with provider guidance if needed.
3rd Trimester
No clear trimester-specific birth defect signal is established. Newborn effects are not well defined; monitor only as advised by your provider.

Risk-Benefit Note

For depression, untreated illness can also harm mother and pregnancy. Your prescriber should weigh treatment benefits against fetal exposure risks before continuing or changing therapy.

Conditions & Warnings

  • Consult OB/GYN or prescriber
  • Depression
  • Smoking cessation
  • Do not stop or start without provider review

Alternatives

  • Non-medicine counseling or therapy for depression
  • Smoking cessation support with your prescriber
  • Other antidepressants with more pregnancy safety data, if appropriate

References

Black Box Warning: Antidepressants may increase suicidal thoughts and behavior in some children, teens, and young adults.
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