Studies Link Celexa to Numerous Birth Defects

* Cleft lip and cleft palate
* Persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN)
* Coarctation of the aorta

Celexa, better known as citalopram, belongs to a drug class called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors or SSRIs. These SSRI antidepressants have become very well-known throughout the news as more and more SSRI antidepressant lawsuits are filed on behalf of parents with children who have experienced birth defects as a result of the SSRI antidepressants, such as Celexa.

Drugs, like Celexa, Zoloft, Paxil, Lexapro, and Prozac, are used as antidepressants because they are responsible for elevating the brain’s serotonin levels, which help alleviate the symptoms of depression. It is used in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder and major depressive disorder for many patents, including women who are or may become pregnant.

Studies Link Celexa with Several Different Birth Defects which Prompts Stricter FDA Warnings

It has been proven through a number of studies that the risk of birth defects is elevated when pregnant women take Celexa or another SSRI antidepressant during pregnancy. However, it is important to note that higher doses were used in some of the studies than the standard dosage patients would normally take.

Results from the studies led the FDA to recommend the use of Celesta during pregnancy only if it proves to be absolutely necessary. The FDA also made an announcement that label revisions would take effect to alert potential patients of the potential dangers linked to Celexa. More to the point, patients have been warned that the dosage should not exceed a daily intake of 40mg due to an elevated chance of fatal heart conditions that may arise from higher dosages.

A study shined light on the fact that patients took at least 20 mg above the FDA recommended dosage, which potentially led to an increased risk of heart problems, as opposed to patients whose dosages were lower or replaced the drug with a placebo substitute.

The FDA, in March of 2012 made a change to the warning label to warn patients suffering from congenital long QT syndrome not to use the dug. Additionally, a 20mg maximum dosage is strongly recommended for patients 60 years and older.

In addition to the birth defects listed above, here are some additional birth defects linked to Celexa as well as other SSRI antidepressants like Zoloft, Paxil, Lexapro, and Prozac.

Additional Birth Defects Linked to SSRI Antidepressants, Including Zoloft, Paxil, Lexapro, and Prozac, and Celexa

* Pulmonary stenosis
* Atrial septic defects
* Delays in bodily development
* Cranial and brain defects (Craniosynostosis),
* Anal Atresia
* Abdominal defect
* Autism Spectrum Disorder
* Clubfoot
* As well as numerous other defects of the heart and body