Antidepressant Birth Defects

Recent studies have linked Prozac, Paxil, and similar antidepressants to an increased risk of birth defects. In December 2005, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a statement warning of the increased risk of heart defects when taking Paxil during pregnancy. Additionally, an article published in the February 2006 New England Journal of Medicine reported that taking Prozac during pregnancy, specifically the last three months, increased the risk of a birth defect known as persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn by as much as six times.

SSRIs and Antidepressant Birth Defects

Prozac (fluoxetine) and Paxil (paroxetine) belong to a class of antidepressants known as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). Prozac and Paxil are both known to cause birth defects, although other antidepressants may also increase the risk of birth defects when taken during pregnancy. However, because it would be a violation of medical ethics to perform studies on pregnant women, research has not established or quantified the risk. To reduce the risk of an antidepressant birth defect, pregnant women should avoid antidepressants – especially SSRIs – when possible.

Other antidepressants classified as SSRIs include:

Luvox (fluvoxamine)
Celexa (citalopram)
Zoloft (sertraline)

MAOIs, Tricyclics, and Antidepressant Birth Defects

Two other less common categories of antidepressants are MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) and Tricyclics. A limited study has shown that pregnant women who took MAOIs during the first trimester faced an increased risk of having a baby with an antidepressant birth defect. While no studies have shown an increased risk for antidepressant birth defects when Tricyclics are taken during pregnancy, these drugs can cause newborns to suffer from other problems, including muscle spasms, heart complications, breathing difficulties, or urinary problems.

Most antidepressant birth defects occur in the first trimester – usually before the woman is even aware of the pregnancy. For this reason, women who are considering becoming pregnant should consult with their doctors to learn about birth defect prevention and to discuss alternative treatments.

Antidepressant Birth Defect Caused Child's Birth Defect?

If your baby was born with an antidepressant birth defect, or other type of birth defect, you may be entitled to seek legal redress for your losses and suffering. Please contact us for a FREE consultation with a skilled and experienced birth defect attorney who can help you understand your legal options.

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Antidepressant Birth Defects

SSRIs and Antidepressant Birth Defects

MAOIs, Tricyclics, and Antidepressant Birth Defects

Antidepressant Birth Defect Caused Child's Birth Defect?

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