Zoloft Linked to PPHN and Other Birth Defects

Zoloft is an anti-depressant medication that is commonly prescribed to those suffering from psychological illnesses, such as general anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and obsessive compulsive disorder. Most patients who have had the medication prescribed to treat their psychological disorders have claimed they were under the impression that the drug was safe to use while pregnant. However, Zoloft has been linked to several serious birth defects that can have adverse effects on the fetus of a pregnant woman who is using the medication. One birth defect that has been linked to the anti-depressant is known as persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). This particular birth defect can have serious and lasting effects throughout the child’s life.

What is Zoloft PPHN?

Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn is a birth defect that is developed within the womb. PPHN affects an infant’s lungs through the failure of the ductus arteriosus to close normally, which causes abnormally high blood flow to the lung and high blood pressure. These two effects cause blood to be diverted from the infant’s lungs, which leads to short and long term effects that eventually lead to more serious risks and health complications through the child’s life. Studies on the side effects of SSRI drugs, including Zoloft, in pregnant women have reported that their child is six times more likely to develop PPHN than infants born to women who did not take these types of medications.

Zoloft Taken Late in Pregnancy Poses Higher Risk

A link has also been made between the use of Zoloft in the second and third trimester and an increased risk of developing PPHN and other Zoloft birth defects. Other studies have shown that babies who are exposed to Zoloft or other similar SSRI drugs while in the womb are also at a higher risk for developing other birth defects, including atrial septal defects, defects of the heart and ventricular septal effects.

Should You File a Zoloft Birth Defect Lawsuit?

A number of mothers who have given birth to babies with PPHN and other birth defects caused by the use of Zoloft during pregnancy have chosen to file lawsuits against the manufacturer of the drug. Medical costs for the care of an infant with one of these serious birth defects can be extremely high and as such, many mothers and families choose to seek compensation. You can also choose to file a Zoloft birth defect lawsuit if you or someone who know has taken Zoloft or a similar SSRI during pregnancy and has then given birth to an infant with any of the following birth defects:

• Abdominal defects
• Brain defects
• Cranial defects
• Hole in the heart
• Lung defects
• Persistent pulmonary hypertension in newborns (PPHN)
• Spina bifida
• Transposition of the great vessels

Please visit our Zoloft, Paxil, Celexa, Lexapro & Prozac SSRI Antidepressant Birth Defect Class Action Lawsuit Investigation page for more information about filing a Zoloft class action lawsuit or individual Zoloft birth defect lawsuit. You can also submit your information to our highly experienced team who can provide you with legal advice on your individual lawsuit.