Last summer, Developmental Psychobiology published a piece by S. Brummelte and a team from University of British Columbia (Vancouver) titled “Antidepressant use during pregnancy and serotonin transporter genotype (SLC6A4) affect newborn serum reelin levels.” exploring contributing genetic factors to susceptibility for SSRI-induced birth defects. To-date, a number of studies have shown that in utero exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor drugs (SSRIs) like Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft is linked to birth defects, but this paper presents the idea that babies with certain genetic profiles are more likely to have birth defects, given prenatal SSRI exposure.
The team states, “This study was undertaken to determine whether altered early serotonin signaling either via gestational serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI) exposure or genetic variations in the serotonin transporter promoter region (SLC6A4) alters levels of reelin, an important glycoprotein in neurodevelopment, in mothers and their neonates.”
In this study, “Serum reelin protein expression was quantified by immunoblot from maternal and neonatal blood collected at delivery from women taking either an SRI during gestation or controls. SRI-exposed mothers had higher levels of one reelin fragment, while SRI-exposed neonates had lower total reelin levels, particularly in females and reelin levels differed with SLC6A4 genotype. Lower neonatal reelin levels predicted less time spent sleeping and more irritability during neonatal behavioral assessment on Day 6 of life.” (emphasis added)
Brummelte concluded that the “results suggest that prenatal SRI exposure and the SLC6A4 genotype influences reelin protein expression in both the mother and newborn and that this may be reflected in neonatal behavior.” (emphasis added)
Due to the fact that SSRI manufacturers have failed time and again to warn women of these and other serious risks, SSRI birth defect lawsuits have been filed by the thousands.
If you or a loved one used SSRIs and gave birth to a child with a birth defect, 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 compassion, resources, and experience 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.