Published in May, 2009 in Pharmacopsychiatry by a team of Australian researchers led by J. Rampono, an article titled “Placental transfer of SSRI and SNRI antidepressants and effects on the neonate.” provides further evidence that drugs such as Celexa, Lexapro, Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft, Effexor and others may cross the placenta and affect a developing fetus.
The team writes “We investigated placental transfer and neurobehavioural effects in neonates exposed to citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine or sertraline (SSRI’s), or to venlafaxine (an SNRI)” and states that “Women receiving antidepressants during pregnancy and their neonates were studied. Cord and maternal drug concentrations were measured at birth and in the neonates plasma on day 3. Neonates were also assessed using a range of neurobehavioral tests and compared to controls.”
Results showed that “Neonatal abstinence scores were significantly higher (p<0.05) in exposed infants than controls on day 1. Brazelton scores for habituation, social-interactive, motor and autonomic clusters, and serotonin scores were significantly greater (p<0.05) in exposed infants.” Accordingly, Rampono et al. (2009) concluded that “Transfer of SSRIs and SNRIs across the placenta was substantial.”
Because so many expecting mothers have used these drugs unaware of the risk for perinatal complications, adverse birth outcomes, or congenital malformations, 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.
Our SSRI Birth Defects Lawsuit Information page is a great place to start if you have any questions about SSRIs and Birth Defects.