Medication Safety in Early Pregnancy: A Concerned Patient's Story

Question
I took a pregnancy test 1 week after my missed period and it came up positive. I confirmed my pregnancy immediately after that. My concern is that I may have damaged the baby. I was taking Dilantin and Xanax, but quit right after the pregnancy test. My neurologist switched me to Keppra about a week after that and he also put me on folic acid until I can see a ob. I am now off of the Keppra and taking a prenatal viatamin. I am 11 weeks pregnant. Do u think there is a chance of anything being wrong? I don't want to terminate the pregnancy. I still haven't seen a doctor because of insurance issues. I'm trying my best to get in, but am freaking out in the meantime. Thanks for your help!

Answer
We used Dilantin during pregnancy for many years. There are other medications that are better, but your use of dilantin (up to 1000mg) is safe during pregnancy. Xanax can also be used during pregnancy, as can Prozac, Wellbutrin, and Zoloft. Paxil has been found to cause pulmonary edema in the fetus. You should continue taking 4mg folic acid throughout the pregnancy to help prevent neural tube defects, such as anencephaly, spina bifida, etc. Even wheh you are not pregnant, folic acid has been advised for all women.It is recommended that a pregnant woman should see her obstetrician at 8 weeks from the start of your period. If you are 11 weeks, you should see an obstetrician or go to a free clinic because you need blood work and will need a sonogram and a test for diabetes before long.