M. Steiner, L. Ross, L. Born. McMaster University Dept, of Psychiatry, Hamilton ON, Canada

The proposed workshop covers both theoretical and practical issues of administration of psychotropic drugs (antipsychotics, antidepressants, mood stabilizers, anxiolytics and hypnotics) and ECT during pregnancy and lactation. It is primarily focused on the very common problems that psychiatrists may encounter in their clinical practice: whether and how to prescribe medication for women who want to become or already are pregnant; or who are breastfeeding; to weigh risks and benefits for baby and mother, including risks of untreated mental illness. Our current knowledge on the effects of psychotropic drugs on fetuses, newborns and infants is largely based on the case reports and retrospective studies. Possible teratogenity, withdrawal symptoms, and long?term impacts are of particular concern. In the introductory part of each session, a brief summary of drug effects, contemporary treatment state?of?art and practical guidelines based on evidence will be reviewed. Afterwards, case reports will be presented and the participants will be encouraged to discuss presented cases.