Today, I came across an article published in a 2011 edition of Journal of Midwifery and Women’s Health by G. Latendresse and a team of researchers from The University of Utah College of Nursing (Salt Lake City) titled “Maternal corticotropin-releasing hormone and the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors independently predict the occurrence of preterm birth.”. There, the connection between prenatal exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor drugs (SSRIs) and poor birth outcomes was further explored. To-date, many articles have found that neurological birth defects, heart defects, and adverse birth outcomes such as preterm birth have been linked to gestational exposure to SSRIs.
Latendresse et al. (2011) write that “Although the purpose of this small, preliminary study was to evaluate the association between chronic maternal stress and PTB, this report focuses on the unexpected finding of the association between maternal use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and PTB.” (“PTB” stands for preterm birth.) In all, 100 pregnant women were studied.
The team found that “Pregnant women who used SSRIs to treat depression and/or anxiety were nearly 12 times more likely to give birth before term when compared with women who did not use these medications.” (emphasis added)
Due to the fact that the manufacturers of many SSRI drugs have failed time and again to warn women of these and other serious risks related to SSRI exposure, SSRI birth defect lawsuits are currently being filed around the world.
If you or a loved one used SSRIs while pregnant 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.
(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.