Zoloft® and Limb Reduction Birth Defects
Zoloft® (sertraline) is one of a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) drugs. SSRIs have become the most popular type of antidepressants in the world. Zoloft® was approved by the FDA in 1991. With a 20-year history of widespread use, Zoloft® has been prescribed to millions of people.
There has been a lot of controversy surrounding use of antidepressants. One of the main concerns involves the potential risk of birth defects in babies whose mothers take SSRIs.
A study conducted and published in 2006 in the New England Journal of Medicine linked four SSRI medications including Zoloft® to the occurrence of PPHN in newborns. Another study published in 2010 showed that a possible Zoloft® birth defect is the "hole in the heart" syndrome known as septal defect.
And, further studies have shown that using Zoloft® (sertraline) during pregnancy may lead to an increased risk of a child being born with a limb reduction defect. There are several types of birth malformations referred to as limb defects. Limb reduction, characterized as a limb defect, has been listed as a potential SSRI birth defect.
Limb Reduction Information
A limb reduction birth defect may be characterized by an incompletely formed limb that is shorter than normal. In some cases a limb may be completely absent, having failed to form in utero. There are other limb defects that are linked to SSRI use, including:
- Outsized or larger limb
- Toes or fingers that failed to separate prior to birth
- Formation of extra digits, meaning a sixth finger or toe
Limb reduction defects may also be accompanied by a constrictive band of tissue that has formed around the limb, limiting circulation. This condition probably contributed to the initial malformation and will certainly continue to limit growth. Usually limb reduction is accompanied by other birth abnormalities such as incomplete or malformed respiratory system or a "hole in the heart," a condition referred to as a septal defect.
Was Your Child Born with Limb Reduction Birth Defects?
If you have given birth to an infant with a limb reduction condition you are familiar with the physical challenges for the child and the emotional difficulties that challenge every parent in that situation. Some limb defects such as webbed fingers or toes can be corrected easily. Some will be a lifelong condition, especially those instances of limb reduction that cannot be surgically repaired and which the body cannot correct after birth.
Contact a Zoloft® Birth Defect Attorney
If your child was born with a limb reduction defect and you were prescribed Zoloft® during pregnancy, you should speak with an experienced drug injury attorney about the possibility of compensation. Our Zoloft® birth defect lawyers have extensive experience handling these types of claims. We have the experience and the skill to achieve justice in your case and will fight to ensure you get the maximum amount of compensation possible.
Contact our offices today to schedule a free consultation with a Zoloft® attorney who will review your case with you in detail.