Zoloft, also known by its generic form sertraline, is a popular medication used to treat depression, anxiety and a variety of other mood disorders. Introduced to the market in 1991 by Pfizer, Zoloft quickly became one of the most popular selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) available. By 2007, Zoloft was the most prescribed antidepressant on the market, with almost 30 million prescriptions filled.
SSRIs like Zoloft work by boosting serotonin in the synaptic cleft in the brain. Low serotonin levels are linked to anxiety and depression, and the boost of serotonin has proven to be an effective antidote.
Zoloft Birth Defects
Recent research has shown that infants who have been exposed to Zoloft or other drugs containingsertraline during the first trimester have a 60 percent higher risk of birth defects. On September 7, 2005, the FDA issued an alert to physicians and consumers of Zoloft to inform them of the strong correlation between birth defects and SSRI consumption during pregnancy. The most common Zoloft birth defects include:
- Omphalocele
- Craniosynostosis
- Club foot
- Spina bifida
- Hole in the heart
- Atrial septal defects
- Ventricular septal defects
- Coarctation of the aorta
- Transposition of the great arteries (TGA)
- Tetralogy of fallot (TOF)
- Hypoplastic left heart syndrome
Zoloft Birth Defect Lawsuit
Pfizer failed to adequately warn doctors and patients of the increased risk of birth defects associated with the use of Zoloft. The FDA has since advised expectant mothers and those trying to get pregnant to eliminate the use of antidepressants entirely.
If you or a loved one used Zoloft or another SSRI while pregnant and delivered a child with a serious birth defect, complete the online free case evaluation form on this page to contact one of our Zoloft birth injury lawyers. A member of our team will be able to evaluate the merits of your claim and offer guidance on the best course of action in the pursuit of compensation. You may be eligible to recover losses from medical bills, pain and suffering and other damages related to the birth defect.
At Phillips Law Group, we believe that when a manufacturer does not properly warn consumers of the risks associated with their products, they should be held accountable for any injuries that occur as a result. For more information on the legal rights which may be available to Zoloft birth defect victims and their families or to schedule a no obligation consultation with a birth defect attorney, complete the free case evaluation form on this page for immediate assistance.
Available 24/7