Vraylar: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and birth control

Vraylar’s use during pregnancy hasn’t been studied. Studies in animals suggest that the drug could cause fetal harm if taken during pregnancy. However, animal studies don’t always predict what will happen in humans.

It’s known that newborns of people who took an atypical (second-generation) antipsychotic in the last 3 months of pregnancy can be at risk of withdrawal symptoms.* (Vraylar is an atypical antipsychotic.) These symptoms can be short term or long term and may include:

• atypical body movements, such as tremors or twitching
• stiff or weak muscles
• sleepiness
• difficulty with breathing or feeding

However, it’s important to know that an untreated mental health condition during pregnancy can also lead to serious effects for both the pregnant person and the fetus or newborn.

If you’re pregnant or want to plan a pregnancy, talk with your doctor about the possible risks and benefits of treatment with Vraylar. If you become pregnant while taking Vraylar, let your doctor know right away. It’s important that you do not suddenly stop taking Vraylar unless your doctor advises this. Stopping treatment could make your symptoms come back.

* Withdrawal symptoms are side effects that occur if you stop taking a drug your body has become dependent on.

Vraylar pregnancy registry

If you decide to take Vraylar during pregnancy, talk with your doctor about being enrolled in the pregnancy exposure registry for atypical antipsychotics such as Vraylar.

The registry collects health information about the effects of antipsychotics on pregnancy. This information can help people make informed decisions about whether to take Vraylar. You can learn more from the registry website or by talking with your doctor.

It’s not known whether Vraylar passes into breast milk or can affect breast milk production. And it’s not known whether the drug can affect children who are breastfed.

If you’re currently breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed during your treatment, talk with your doctor about whether Vraylar is right for you.

It’s not known whether Vraylar is safe to take during pregnancy. If you’re sexually active and you or your partner can become pregnant, talk with your doctor about your birth control needs while you’re taking Vraylar.

For more information about taking Vraylar during pregnancy, see the “Vraylar and pregnancy” section above.

Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.