Zoloft Warnings
Zoloft Warnings
Zoloft (generic: sertraline) is an FDA-approved drug used primarily for the treatment of major depression (MDD) in adults, social anxiety disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder, among other illnesses. It is one of many brands of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) on the market and is not, despite many physicians behaving to the contrary, approved for the treatment of depression in persons under the age of 18. Zoloft warnings include those for pregnant women, as there may be a possible risk of Zoloft birth defects for these individuals.
If you are interested in joining a Zoloft lawsuit, which can provide compensaiton to mothers who bore children with Zoloft birth defects, fill out the simple form to the right for a free, no-obligation Zoloft lawsuit consultation.
Zoloft Side Effects
Among the side effects of taking Zoloft are apparent withdrawal symptoms, which may also be evidenced in fetuses as sleep disturbance, if a pregnant mother discontinues taking the drug. This finding was an early indication of the effects of SSRIs on fetal development, and further studies would go on to suggest that other potential Zoloft birth defects can be much more serious.
Possibly due to serotonin's role in fetal development, SSRI antidepressants like Zoloft and sertraline have allegedly been linked to congenital malformations in infants whose mothers took them during pregnancy. Among these are two types of skull and brain defects (Zoloft craniosynostosis and anecephaly); omphalocele, an abdominal/intestinal Zoloft birth defect; and Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension (PPHN). Additionally, there may be evidence of Zoloft heart defects in certain infants.
Taking Zoloft During Pregnancy
In spite of these data, many mothers have continued to take Zoloft during pregnancy. This could be due to the belief that they will relapse quickly into depression, or that the drug's positive effects outweigh the relatively small likelihood of a Zoloft birth defect.
The FDA has issued Zoloft warnings concerning potential Zoloft PPHN complications, as well as an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children and adults. However, there has been no Zoloft recall to date. If your infant was born with a defect and you have taken SSRIs, contact our Zoloft birth defects lawyers by filling out our free, no-obligation case evaluation form. A Zoloft birth defects lawsuit may be able to recover compensation for your medical bill and pain and suffering.