In 2004, an article by B. Källén, a Swedish researcher, titled “Neonate characteristics after maternal use of antidepressants in late pregnancy.” in Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine provides insight into the danger of perinatal exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor drugs (SSRIs).
The stated objective was “To investigate neonatal outcomes in 997 infants (987 mothers) after maternal use of antidepressants based on prospectively recorded information in antenatal care documents,” citing that “Exposure to antidepressants during the third trimester of pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk for adverse birth outcomes, including preterm birth, respiratory distress, and hypoglycemia.”
Results showed that “increased risk for preterm birth (odds ratio [OR], 1.96) and low birth weight (OR, 1.98) was verified”, meaning that the risk for premature birth with gestational SSRI exposure is doubled and also the risk for low birth weight with gestational SSRI exposure is doubled.
Further, “An increased risk for a low Apgar score (OR, 2.33), respiratory distress (OR, 2.21), neonatal convulsions (OR,1.90), and hypoglycemia (OR, 1.62) was found, the latter especially after exposure to tricyclic drugs, but no significant effect on the frequency of neonatal jaundice was seen (OR, 1.13).”
Due to the fact that so many women used SSRI drugs unaware of the risk for adverse perinatal outcomes, a number of SSRI birth defect lawsuits have been filed. If you or a loved one used SSRIs and gave birth to a child with a congenital malformation or who had perinatal complications, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation. For a free, no-obligation case consultation, contact our team of SSRI birth defect lawyers at the information provided below. We have the experience, resources, and skills required to win the justice you deserve. Call today and see how we can help.
(855) 452 – 5529
Our SSRI Birth Defects Lawsuit Information page is a great place to start if you have any questions about SSRIs and Birth Defects.