An article titled “SSRI antidepressants: altered psychomotor development following exposure in utero?” that appeared in the February, 2013 edition of Prescrire International examines additional risks of prenatal exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor drugs (SSRIs). To be clear, a number of other studies have linked adverse birth outcomes linked to SSRI exposure in years passed.
This team states “Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants (SSRIs) are sometimes prescribed to pregnant women. The potential consequences for the unborn child are gradually becoming clearer. In a case-control study of 298 children with autism and 1507 controls, 6.7% of mothers of autistic children had been prescribed an antidepressant during the year before delivery, compared to 3.3% of control mothers. The antidepressant was usually an SSRI. A dozen other small epidemiological studies of neurological development in children exposed to antidepressants in utero have provided mixed results. Two of these studies suggested a risk of psychomotor retardation. In practice, SSRI antidepressants should only be considered for pregnant women when non-drug measures fail and when symptoms are sufficiently serious to warrant drug therapy.” (emphasis added)
Citing a link to autism and poor neurodevelopment, this article can be used as evidence in a SSRI birth defect lawsuit to illustrate the the manufacturers of SSRIs knew, or should have known the risks associated with their products. Due to the fact that these manufacturers failed to warn expecting mothers of these risks, SSRI lawsuits have been filed all over the world.
If you or a loved one used SSRIs and gave birth to a child with autism, a congenital malformation, or who had poor neonatal development, 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.
(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.