Anti-Depressants (The Sunday Times, 11 December 2005)

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Q. My sister in law is currently pregnant and came off anti-depression drugs when she found out she was expecting. As a result she is now suffering badly from depression and is loathe to take anti-depressants, with her doctors telling her that she should go back on anti-depressants but it is up to her to weigh up the risks to her unborn child. Are there any alternatives she could try which would help her through her pregnancy and not harm her baby? She is currently in her second trimester.



A. I can understand the dilemma she is facing as with pregnant women, I too am cautious in prescribing even natural alternatives during this time. However, there are some supplements that are extremely important to take in pregnancy – a good prenatal multivitamin and an essential fatty acid supplement providing sufficient EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These essential fatty acids are extremely important to take throughout pregnancy for both mother and baby as the baby is unable to synthesise these essential fatty acids itself, and has the advantage of helping with some forms of depression. There is a clear association between low levels of these omega-3 fatty acids and depression and in countries with a high level of fish consumption, there are fewer cases of depression. The human brain is one of the largest "consumers" of DHA; low DHA levels have been linked to low brain serotonin levels which are connected to an increased tendency to depression. The recommended daily dose in pregnancy is 500-600 mg of DHA. Even though oily fish is an ideal source, some fish including tuna has been shown to contain high levels of mercury, so favour sources such as wild Alaskan salmon (found in some varieties of tinned salmon) and take a good quality fish oil supplement to ensure an adequate intake of DHA and EPA. One teaspoon of Eskimo 3 oil (that have been carefully purified from all environmental poisons) provides 500mg of DHA and is available from Nutri 0800 212742 priced £12.70 for 105ml (or 210ml is £20.95). Please do keep in touch with your GP to monitor your situation carefully.



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