Is there a correlation of Venlafaxin (Efexor®) therapy during pregnancy and a higher incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis?

Background: Neonates exposed to Venlafaxine (Efexor®), a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, are at risk for severe withdrawal symptoms, poor neonatal adaptation including respiratory difficulties and as previously reported necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). We present twins who both developed necrotizing enterocolitis on the 6th day of life. Objective: The twins were delivered by cesarian section at a gestational age of 33+2 weeks due to persistent vaginal bleeding and contractions secondary to placenta praevia marginalis. Until 4 days before delivery the mother was treated with Venlafaxine (Efexor®)…