In 2012, more research connected Paxil (paroxetine) to increased rates of cardiac malformations – that is, birth defects of the heart. In this study, titled “Paroxetine use during pregnancy and perinatal outcomes including types of cardiac malformations in Quebec and France: a short communication.” by A. Bérard et al. in that year’s July edition of Current Drug Safety, Bérard and the team reviewed nearly 150,000 pregnancies in Quebec and France, and compared rates of SSRI use and cardiac malformations.
Of the nearly 110,000 eligible pregnancies from Quebec, 1.5% of neonates were exposed to Paxil. The team writes “Prevalence of paroxetine use during pregnancy increased from 0.7% to 1.2% between 1998 and 2003, simultaneously to the increase of the prevalence of cardiac malformation diagnoses.” That is, as Paxil exposure became more common, heart birth defects became more common.
Similar results were found for the French cohort of 40,317 pregnancies. Of these, 0.4% (173) were exposed to Paxil. In the period 2004 to 2008, Paxil exposure remained constant, and cardiac malformation rates remained constant. This does not link the two variables, but it does not unlink the two variables, so to speak.
Fortunately, many studies have been published which make the connection between Paxil and birth defects sufficiently vivid. Because these risks have not been made clear to expecting mothers using SSRI drugs, a number of Paxil lawsuits have been filed.
If you or a loved one used Paxil and gave birth to a child with a congenital malformation, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation. For a free, no-obligation case consultation, contact our team of Paxil® birth defects 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.