Zoloft Birth Defects – How to Get Compensated for Zoloft Birth Defects

Wednesday, February 15th, 2012 at 3:38 am

Zoloft Birth Defects

Zoloft is a popular antidepressant medication that has been linked to serious Zoloft birth defects in infants of mothers who were taking the drug during their pregnancy. The use of antidepressants poses a difficult situation for many expecting mothers. However, some mothers may have taken this medication without proper knowledge of the potential risks. If you or someone you know has experienced Zoloft birth defects, you should know about the available options for filing a Zoloft lawsuit.

Zoloft Birth Defects: Use

Zoloft is used on a regular basis to treat serious depression, anxiety disorders, panic disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). This is a very popular medication and is used by millions of patients in the United States. Women who take Zoloft during the first trimester of pregnancy may experience very serious side effects, however. These could be dangerous for both the mother and infant, resulting in birth complications and Zoloft birth defects. Zoloft is categorized as a pregnancy Class C medication and is still permitted during pregnancy, but reporting the associated side effects of this drug may help it to get a stronger categorization.

Zoloft Birth Defects: Complications

Among the recorded birth defects associated with Zoloft are cleft palate, persistent pulmonary hypertension, clubbed foot and gastrochisis. Infants born to mothers taking Zoloft may also experience Zoloft birth defects that affect the heart, brain, spinal cord and skull. Mothers may experience a miscarriage or premature birth as a result of taking Zoloft during their pregnancy. If you or your child has suffered from any of these complications as a result of Zoloft use, legal action may be an option.

Zoloft Birth Defects: Withdrawal

In addition to Zoloft birth defects, taking Zoloft during pregnancy may also cause the infant to experience withdrawal symptoms after he or she is born. This is a trying ordeal for both the mother and newborn, as withdrawal is a very difficult experience. Symptoms of drug withdrawal in infants include shakiness, fever, vomiting, seizures, excessive crying, difficulty feeding and irritability. You should be aware of these symptoms if you have taken Zoloft or another antidepressant during your pregnancy, and talk to your doctor if you see any unusual behaviors in your infant.

Zoloft Birth Defects: Weighing the Options

Many expectant mothers struggle a great deal with the decision of whether or not to continue on an antidepressant during pregnancy. Stopping a drug like Zoloft can be as dangerous as taking it for some women. If the mother’s depression cannot be managed in another way, she may experience preeclampsia. Mothers who are severely depressed may also make dangerous decisions during their pregnancy such as failing to get proper prenatal care, self medicating with drugs and alcohol or failing to eat properly, and thus depriving the fetus of the required nutrition. These dangers must be weighed against the possibility of Zoloft birth defects.

Zoloft Birth Defects: Important Decisions

The choice of whether or not to continue taking Zoloft in light of the potential complication is something that prospective mothers should discuss in detail with their doctors. It is crucial that the patient be presented with a clear understanding of the options, alternatives, risks and dangers associated with every decision. Patients who are not properly warned about the dangers of Zoloft use, may have the option of seeking legal action. If you or someone you know experienced the devastating effects of Zoloft birth defects, you should know there are legal options available to you that may provide compensation for pain, suffering and associated medical expenses.

If you believe you may be eligible to file a Zoloft lawsuit, you can get a free compensation evaluation on this Accutane Lawsuit website.