Published in an August 2012 edition of Early Human Development, an article by K. Lim et al. titled “Third trimester fetal pulmonary artery Doppler blood flow velocity characteristics following prenatal selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) exposure.” further examines the risk for birth defects like persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) after exposure to maternal selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor drugs (SSRIs) in pregnancy.
Lim states “there has been no assessment of fetal pulmonary arterial dynamics in [pregnancies wherein babies are exposed to maternal SSRI drugs].” As such, the team aimed “To measure fetal right pulmonary artery (RPA) variables using Doppler ultrasound at 36 weeks gestation in fetuses of mothers taking SSRI antidepressants (n=23) and in a control, normal pregnancy group (n=35).”
After a great deal of statistical analysis, the team found that “8 of the 23 latter fetuses experience transient respiratory difficulties at birth and, in these RPA flow was significantly higher than in the SSR-exposed fetuses without respiratory problems.”
Because so many women have used SSRIs in pregnancy unaware of the risk for birth defects and negative birth outcomes, SSRI birth defect lawsuits have been filed in great number over the past few decades.
If you or a loved one used SSRIs and gave birth to a child with a congenital malformation or who had perinatal complications, your family 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 compassion, resources, and experience 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.