I've devoted many pages on my Web site to warnings about the dangers of antidepressants. Based on the results of a retrospective study, higher numbers of babies were born with birth defects from mothers taking Paxil during their first trimester, compared to women using other antidepressants.

Among the problems associated with Paxil use by moms: Increased heart defects in their babies.

Researchers examined the medical records of babies born to some 3,600 women who took Paxil or other antidepressants during their first trimester of pregnancy. A preliminary analysis showed Paxil use increased the standard rate of birth defects by a third to 4 percent. As a result, British drugmaker GlaxoSmithKline will include the findings of the study in the prescribing instructions for Paxil.

Unfortunately, many health care professionals and patients remain unaware of the marketing tactics drug companies use to attract your attention.

Fact is, there are far safer, healthier options for beating depression than taking a potentially toxic drudepressionStart:

• Taking a high-quality fish or cod liver oil.
• Starting an exercise program today.
• Learning how to use an energy psychology tool like the Emotional Freedom Technique.

ABC News September 27, 2005

USA Today September 28, 2005