Hi Amrita,
I can understand your concern regarding the effect of restyl (alprazolam) if taken during pregnancy on the fetus.
Alprazolam is a
benzodiazepine used for sedation or as anti-
anxiety medication. If taken during pregnancy, it can cause definite harmful effects on the fetus. Exposure to any benzodiazepine during pregnancy can result in either of the following:
-Low birth weight
-respiratory difficulties
-congenital malformations
-low intelligence
-Floppy muscles
If taken later til the end of pregnancy, it can cause withdrawal syndrome in the new born baby leading to irritability, confusion and even convulsions.
It is highly recommended that you quit taking alprazolam before conceiving. You should
consult a psychiatrist for the same. Treatment would include substitution with long acting benzodiazepines like
chlordiazepoxide at equivalent doses and then tapering it gradually. In addition, you might also need treatment for any
depression or anxiety that you might be suffering from.
Hope this information was helpful. Best wishes.