Antidepressant Birth Defect Lawyer
Our antidepressant birth defect lawyers represent infants and parents affected by birth defects after taking antidepressant medications. If your child was born with a birth defect and you were treated within antidepressant during your pregnancy, you might qualify for financial compensation. Call us today to learn more about your rights.
Managing the Symptoms of Depression
Depression is a serious disorder that affects millions of Americans. In fact, it has been estimated that approximately 15 million adults are battling depression right now. If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of depression, you should seek help as soon as possible so you can learn to manage them before they interfere with your life.
Every person is different and will be affected differently. Symptoms might include one or more of the following:
- Feeling sad or "empty"
- Loss of interest in things you typically like to do
- Excessive weight loss or weight gain
- Changes in sleep habits (e.g. difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping)
- Unexplained fatigue, no energy
- Excessive guilt, feelings of worthlessness
- Problems concentrating
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Treating Depression with Antidepressants
There are many effective ways to treat depression. One of the first treatment options a doctor will consider is antidepressants. Some doctors will encourage therapy in combination with antidepressants to reach optimal results. Patients should also consider making lifestyle changes such as managing stress, getting enough sleep and exercising regularly.
Antidepressants work by building stronger connections between some of the nerve cells in the brain. There are several different types of antidepressants. Some of the most common types belong to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These include Zoloft®, Celexa®, Lexapro®, Paxil® and Prozac®.
Therapy is also an effective form of treatment. Researchers believe that the effects of therapy last longer while antidepressants work faster.
Negative Effects of Taking Antidepressants
Taking any type of medication can take a toll on the body and mind. As with any drug, some patients might experience side effects from antidepressants. Reported side effects include nervousness, headache and upset stomach. Other side effects can include nausea, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, increased appetite and weight gain, dry mouth, blurred vision and dizziness. If the side effects persist, you should talk to your doctor.
Antidepressants and Pregnancy
If you are thinking about getting pregnant or become pregnant and are taking an antidepressant, you should talk to your doctor about your options. Some antidepressants can pose a risk to your baby if you continue to take them while you are pregnant. Do not stop taking your antidepressant without talking to your doctor first; only your doctor can determine what is right for you and your baby.
Antidepressant Birth Defect Risk
Certain antidepressants have been linked to serious birth defects. Zoloft® (sertraline) and other SSRIs have been linked to the development of serious birth defects, including:
- Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN)
- Septal heart defects
- Anencephaly, which affects the skull and brain
- Craniosynostosis
- Omphalocele, which affects the organs in the abdomen
Other antidepressants have been accused of causing limb malformations and increased blood pressure that could lead to stroke.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Birth Defect Lawyer
If your baby is born with a birth defect and you took an antidepressant during your pregnancy, we may be able to help you recover compensation for your medical bills and pain and suffering. Our birth defect lawyers offer free and confidential case evaluations for people who believe they may have a case. Contact us for more information.