SSRIs, also known as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, are drugs that are often used as antidepressants which serve as treatment for a number of conditions, including anxiety, certain personality disorders and, of course, depression. Although SSRIs, such as Zoloft and Prozac, have been shown to improve the aforementioned conditions, they carry dangerous risks for newborns.
SSRI Birth Defects
If a mother is taking an SSRI during pregnancy, especially near the end of gestation, the baby is at an increased risk of developing a number of physical and/or mental disorders, such as agitation, abnormal muscle tone, and seizures. Newborns affected by SSRIs are also in danger of developing heart defects, neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) and, most unfortunately, persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN).
PPHN is a rare and life-threatening lung condition that increases the blood pressure in the lung blood vessels, which prevents enough oxygen from entering the bloodstream. If the newborn survives PPHN, he or she will still require consistent and intensive medical care. SSRIs increase the likelihood of developing PPHN by six times.
Getting the Compensation You and Your Child Deserve
If your child has developed a birth defect due to SSRI-use during pregnancy, you are entitled to pursue legal action against negligent parties. At the Kiley Law Group, our dedicated SSRI birth defect lawyers in Boston are committed to giving our clients the support and guidance they need during such a difficult time. Obtaining maximum compensation is the only way to ensure that your child gets the medical care they require. To learn more about how we can help your family, call us today for a free case evaluation at (888) 208-1695.
