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Paxil Birth Defects
The medication Paxil (paroxetine or paroxetine hydrochloride) is used to treat adult depression, PTSD, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. Paxil is in a class of medications called selective seratonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs help maintain a balance of serotonin levels in the brain in order to restore the brain to a normal emotional state. Paxil has been linked to serious birth defects including:
- Heart Defects (ventricular and/or atrial septal heart defects, “holes in the heart”)
- Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn (PPHN)
- Abdonimal Defects (Omphalocele)
- Skull Defects (Craniosynostosis, “cloverleaf skull”)
- Neural-tube defects (spina bifida, anencephaly)
- Club foot
- Anal atresia
Characteristics of Paxil Birth Defects
If your child was born with a birth defect, you should learn as much as you can about the condition and what can be done.
Studies have indicated that pregnant women who took Paxil during the first trimester had babies more likely to be born with a heart defect, most commonly atrial and ventricular septal defects, or holes in the walls of the chambers of the heart. The risk for babies exposed to Paxil in utero was double that of the general population.
Studies have also shown that taking SSRI antidepressants in the second half of pregnancy may lead a baby to develop persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN). Newborns with this rare condition do not receive enough oxygen in the blood and many do not survive. Babies with PPHN may experience developmental problems, brain problems and even death. The FDA also warns that Zoloft cancause PPHN if taken after the 20th week of pregnancy. Other drugs in this class of SSRIs to avoid during pregnancy are: Celexa, Lexapro, Prozac, and Wellbutrin, to name a few.
Studies have indicated that pregnant women who took Paxil during the first trimester had babies more likely to be born with a heart defect, most commonly atrial and ventricular septal defects, or holes in the walls of the chambers of the heart. The risk for babies exposed to Paxil in utero was double that of the general population.
Studies have also shown that taking SSRI antidepressants in the second half of pregnancy may lead a baby to develop persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN). Newborns with this rare condition do not receive enough oxygen in the blood and many do not survive. Babies with PPHN may experience developmental problems, brain problems and even death. The FDA also warns that Zoloft cancause PPHN if taken after the 20th week of pregnancy. Other drugs in this class of SSRIs to avoid during pregnancy are: Celexa, Lexapro, Prozac, and Wellbutrin, to name a few.
Paxil Lawsuit Attorneys
If you took Paxil while pregnant and your baby suffered heart or lung birth defects, please contact our experienced Paxil Birth Defect Lawyers today for a free legal consultation. Medical treatment for these conditions is very costly and drug companies must assume responsibility. We will analyze your case and advise whether you are entitled to compensation. Contact us here.
