A 2007 article titled “Serotonin reuptake inhibitor-induced perinatal complications.” by S. Gentil and a team of researchers from Italy published in Paediatric Drugs delves further into the risks of SSRI use during pregnancy. To be clear, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are psychiatric medications like Paxil, Prozac, Zoloft, and others – some of the world’s most commonly prescribed drugs.
Gentil states, “There are a growing number of concerns about the utilization of serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) in late pregnancy and the onset of perinatal complications” and explains that “This review aimed to analyze and summarize the studies evaluating the risk of perinatal complications (such as low birth weight, preterm delivery, withdrawal or toxic phenomena, and other detrimental events/poor neonatal outcomes) related to maternal SRI use in late pregnancy.”
In this study, “A computerized search of MEDLINE (1966-January 2007) and PsycINFO (1974-January 2007) databases was performed. Articles describing perinatal complications after late in utero exposure to SRIs were selected and also reviewed for additional references.” In all, the team found 50 studies that satisfied requirements.
After using an array of tough statistical analyses, the team found that “Exposure to SRIs late in pregnancy is clearly associated with an increased risk of infants developing a constellation of symptoms, including CNS and respiratory effects, often requiring close infant observation and supportive or specific treatment in intensive care units. … Indeed, some evidence suggests that SRIs may interfere with the physiology of the respiratory system and parasympathetic activity in neonates.” (emphasis added)
Because thousands of women have used SSRIs while pregnant unaware of the risks associated with that class of drugs, SSRI birth defect lawsuits have been filed in great number over the last decade. Accordingly, if you or a loved one used SSRIs and gave birth to a child with a birth defect 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.