In 2010, an article published in Canadian Medical Association Journal titled “Use of antidepressants during pregnancy and the risk of spontaneous abortion.” illustrated the link between SSRI use during pregnancy and increased risk for spontaneous abortion.
This study, led by H.R. Nakhai-Pour of The University of Montreal, “obtained data from the Quebec Pregnancy Registry for 5124 women who had a clinically detected spontaneous abortion.” And “For each case, [they] randomly selected 10 controls from the remaining women in the registry who were matched by the case’s index date (date of spontaneous abortion) and gestational age at the time of spontaneous abortion. Use of antidepressants was defined by filled prescriptions and was compared with nonuse.”
Results showed that 5.5% of women who suffered spontaneous abortion were prescribe antidepressants at the time, compared to only 2.7% of matched controls. After statistical analysis, it was determined that use of antidepressants, specifically SSRIs (such as Paxil, Prozac, Celexa, and others) raised the risk for spontaneous abortion 61% over non-use. Paxil itself raised risk for spontaneous abortion 75%, Effexor raised the risk for spontaneous abortion 211%.
Since many women have used SSRIs during pregnancy unaware of these risks, a number of SSRI birth defect lawsuits have been filed. If you or a loved one used SSRIs during pregnancy and suffered spontaneous abortion, gave birth to a child with a congenital malformation, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation. For a free 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.
(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.