Kansas City Birth Defects & SSRIs Lawyers
Was your baby harmed by an SSRI drug? Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a popular class of antidepressants that work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Some studies suggest[1] that babies exposed to certain SSRI medications during pregnancy were more likely to suffer from birth defects[2] such as:
- Atrial septal defects (ASD)
- Ventricular septal defects (VSD)
- Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension (PPHN)
ASD and VSD are holes in the heart that often need to surgery. PPHN is a life-threatening lung condition that occurs soon after birth. Babies with PPHN cannot get enough oxygen into their bloodstream.
There is evidence that as early as the 1990s drug company studies indicated a link between SSRI drugs and changes to brain chemistry which could be persistent or permanent. In 2006 the FDA issued a safety update that indicated serious concerns about taking SSRIs during any part of pregnancy, including in the first trimester and after the 20th week. In this report, the FDA suggests that women who are pregnant or considering pregnancy should consult their physician. The FDA also requested that sponsors of all SSRIs change prescribing information to more thoroughly communicate these concerns.
SSRIs are marketed under many names. A complete list of all marketed SSRIs brand names and generic names is posted for reference. The most well-known brand names include:
- Celexa
- Fluoxetine
- Lexapro
- Luvox
- Paroxetine
- Paxil
- Prozac
- Zoloft
If your baby has been injured by a dangerous drug, the manufacturer may have failed in its duty to design, make, inspect and label the product appropriately.
At Brown & Crouppen our experienced team of defective drug attorneys provide tough, aggressive representation for victims and their families.
Brown & Crouppen can help you make informed decisions about your legal rights, so please call Brown & Crouppen at Toll Free: 1-888-891-2022 for your free legal consultation or save time with our online contact form.
[1] http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/2005/ucm108527.htm
[2] http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts/ucm150749.htm
