Birth Defects Caused By Lexapro

by Steve Fields on March 1st, 2012

If you are pregnant or are considering becoming pregnant, you should know the importance of talking with your doctor to re-evaluate your medications. Some medicines that may be acceptable to use under normal circumstances can present a danger when used during pregnancy. Birth defects caused by Lexapro have been reported by women using this medication during pregnancy.

Take antidepressants, as an example. The March of Dimes estimates that 10% of pregnant women also suffer from depression. These women may have already been coping with depression, or the first symptoms may arise during the pregnancy. Those who do not seek treatment may be putting their unborn babies at risk because women with untreated depression have a higher risk of having a premature or low birth weight baby. Additionally, a person with depression may use unhealthy coping behaviors, such as smoking, drinking alcohol or using drugs. Sadly, those in the deepest depression may consider or even try to harm themselves, and ultimately, their babies.

As a result, doctors frequently recommend medication, in addition to other therapies, that will help lift the feelings of helplessness and despair. Often, these antidepressants can offer a quicker relief that helps encourage recovery.

But some antidepressants may also present a danger when used by women who are pregnant. A particular class of antidepressants called SSRIs have been linked to a number of birth defects.

SSRIs are Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, and they work by targeting the way that a neurotransmitter, or brain chemical, is absorbed in the brain. Researchers believe that this transaction affects depression. Some of the most frequently prescribe antidepressants are SSRIs, including Lexapro, Celexa, Prozac and Paxil.

After studying a variety of different groups, researchers have concluded that the use of Lexapro and other SSRIs can affect a baby’s development, leading to the following congenital birth defects:

• Atrial and ventricular septal defects
• Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn
• Spina bifida
• Anal atresia
• Various heart and valve problems
• Omphaloceles
• Cleft lip and palate
• Clubfoot

Parents of babies who were born with these Lexapro birth defects undoubtedly have questions. How did these dangerous drugs get on the market? Did the drug manufacturers do enough to ensure the safety of their drugs, under all circumstances?

We are working with these families to help them find answers. We are filing Lexapro lawsuits on behalf of our clients in order to receive reparation for the injuries their children have endured. If your child was born with a birth defect after being exposed to Lexapro and other SSRIs before birth, you may be entitled to compensation as well. Contact us today for a free consultation to review your legal options. There is a limited time to file a Lexapro lawsuit. Please contact us at your earliest convenience.