Investigating how treating maternal depression affects the heart development of newborns
SSRI Exposure and Ventricular Development from Bench to Bedside: A Prospective Study to Determine if Maternal Depression Treatment Impacts Offspring Cardiac Development
This study is looking at how treating depression in new moms might affect their babies' heart health, comparing the use of medication and therapy to see which helps both moms and their little ones the most.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10869939 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to explore the impact of treating maternal depression on the cardiac development of infants. It involves measuring heart size and function through echocardiography immediately after birth and over time. The study compares the effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and non-pharmacologic treatments like interpersonal psychotherapy on both mothers and their babies. By understanding these relationships, the research seeks to clarify whether SSRIs influence heart development in newborns and if non-drug treatments can provide similar benefits.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women experiencing depression who are considering treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who do not have a diagnosis of depression may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for maternal depression that safeguard the cardiac health of newborns.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown varying results regarding the effects of SSRIs on cardiac development, making this study both relevant and necessary to clarify these findings.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Haskell, Sarah Elizabeth — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Haskell, Sarah Elizabeth
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.