Zoloft Birth Defects
Women who used selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) during pregnancy and gave birth to a child with serious birth defects may be entitled to compensation. If you or a loved one gave birth to a child with birth defects after using Zoloft or another antidepressant while pregnant, contact a Zoloft birth defect lawyer to explore your legal options.
SSRI
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (or SSRI) are used to treat a variety of mood disorders, including:
- Depression
- Panic disorder
- Social Anxiety Disorder
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
SSRI boost serotonin in an area of the brain called the synaptic cleft. Low serotonin levels are linked to anxiety and depression, so the boost of serotonin has proven to be an effective antidote. Some of the most common SSRI are:
- Zoloft
- Paxil
- Lexapro
- Celexa
Zoloft Birth Defects
On September 7, 2005, the FDA issued an alert to physicians and consumers of SSRI to inform them of the link between birth defects and SSRI use during pregnancy.
Studies have shown that infants exposed to Zoloft during the first trimester have a 60% higher risk of birth defects. The most common birth defects include:
- Cleft palate
- Limb deformity
- Spina Bifida
- Serious heart defects
- Persistent pulmonary hypertension
- Atrial Septal defects
- Epilepsy/seizures
Manufacturers failed to warn consumers of these risks. The FDA advises expectant mothers and those trying to get pregnant to eliminate the use of anti-depressants entirely.
Zoloft Birth Defect Lawyers
If you or a loved one used Zoloft or another antidepressant while pregnant and gave birth to a child with any of these birth defects, contact one of our Zoloft birth defect attorneys to see if you might have a case.
At Gordon & Doner, we feel that when a manufacturer fails to warn consumers of the risks of using their products, such as Zoloft, they should be held accountable.
For more information or to schedule a free case evaluation with a Zoloft birth defect lawyer, contact the lawyers of Gordon & Doner today at 1-800-659-1159.
