In June, 2009, Current Psychiatry Reports published an article titled “Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor use during pregnancy and possible neonatal complications.” by J. Cantor Sackett et al. from The Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia that evaluated the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) during pregnancy. SSRI drugs are antidepressants such as Prozac, Zoloft, and Paxil that work to regulate serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, a “chemical messenger,” if you will, that plays an important role in mood, sleep, appetite, and fetal development.
Cantor Sackett (2009) writes, “This paper reviews the risks and benefits of using selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in pregnant women. The effects of SSRI use on pregnant women and fetuses are discussed, and the need for SSRI treatment is explained. Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn, teratogenic risks of SSRI treatment during pregnancy, neonatal adaptations, and long-term outcomes for children whose mothers used SSRIs during pregnancy are specifically considered. Due to conflicting results from current studies, there are no clear guidelines for SSRI treatment in pregnancy. Patients and doctors must discuss together the risks and benefits of SSRI use during pregnancy and decide on a course of treatment. Potential risks must be balanced against the effects of untreated maternal depression.”
Since many studies have linked persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn with prenatal SSRI exposure, 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.
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Our SSRI Birth Defects Lawsuit Information page is a great place to start if you have any questions about SSRIs and Birth Defects.