In March, 2012, G. Dubnov-Raz and a team of Israeli researchers published an article in Early Human Development titled “Maternal use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors during pregnancy and neonatal bone density.” that explores negative consequences of prenatal exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor drugs (SSRIs). To-date, scores of peer-reviewed scientific studies have demonstrated that gestational SSRI exposure is linked to heart defects, brain defects, withdrawal syndrome, preterm birth, and other adverse birth outcomes. Here, neonatal bone density is examined.
The team states that “Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) are commonly used to treat depression in pregnant women … Several adverse effects of prenatal SSRI exposure on the offspring have been described, including decreased growth. SSRI use by adults decreases bone mineral density, but this effect had not been examined in infants,” and thus, the aim of this research was “To examine growth parameters and bone mineral density of infants born to mothers using SSRIs during pregnancy.”
Studying 40 babies exposed to SSRIs in utero and comparing them with 40 without SSRI exposure, the team examined “Tibial bone speed of sound, a marker of bone density and strength”.
Results showed that “Infants in the SSRI-exposed group were shorter, with a marginal statistical significance (49.3±2.1 vs. 50.1±1.3cm, p=0.07)” and “Head circumference was significantly smaller in the SSRI group (33.8±1.2 vs 34.4±1.1cm, p=0.005), remaining so even after adjustment for several confounders.”
Dubnov-Raz et al. (2012) concluded: “We found no evidence that prenatal SSRI exposure hindered neonatal bone quality, yet a marginally shorter length and a smaller head circumference raise the possibility of an effect on bone growth.”
Since many women have used SSRIs unaware of the risk for adverse birth outcomes (due to a manufacturer’s failure to warn), thousands of SSRI birth defect lawsuits are currently being filed.
If you or a loved one used SSRIs during pregnancy 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.