Zoloft Birth Defects: Families Involved in Lawsuits

One of the most tragic side effects of the anti-depressant medication Zoloft is the possibility of birth defects that have been linked to the drug. A number of families have been impacted by these side effects and some have filed lawsuits because of the side effects. The medication can contribute to a risk of birth defects in children, especially when taken by pregnant women in their first trimester of pregnancy. Now, eight families have filed lawsuits in Michigan in a combined lawsuit. All of these families assert that the mother's use of the popular antidepressant during pregnancy has resulted in severe birth defects.

One of the most common claims in Zoloft birth defect lawsuits is that the drug maker, Pfizer, failed to adequately warn patients of the potential risks associated with use of the medication during pregnancy. Women who took the drug during pregnancy were often led to believe that the drug would be safe to use, but the babies born to the families in the Michigan lawsuit had serious Zoloft side effects at birth--neural tube defects, abdominal defects, and limb deformities. These birth defects have been linked by the lawsuit to the mothers' use of Zoloft during pregnancy.

Zoloft is one of the more widely used drugs in the country and is used to treat an array of psychological disorders, most commonly depression. Because it is taken by so many people the rate of side effects is certainly of concern. Zoloft birth defects are among the most worrying side effects cited by users and researchers as they can severely affect the health and future of a child--some Zoloft birth defects can even be fatal.

Birth defects that have been linked to Zoloft use include persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn--also known as PPHN--, congenital heart defects, craniosynostosis, omphalocele, and limb deformities like club foot or other deformities. These conditions mean the child needs special care immediately after birth--and may need it for the rest of his or her life. In addition, physical deformities may be permanent, and chronic illnesses or physical problems may be linked to these birth defects.

The Food and Drug Administration has warned about the risk of serious complications when using Zoloft during pregnancy, but the drug continues to be marketed as a safe choice for pregnant women, who are often susceptible to depression because of changes in hormones. 

The Michigan Zoloft birth defects lawsuit is not the only Zoloft lawsuit in the country--not by a long shot. A number of plaintiffs are contacting personal injury lawyers and trying to get as much information as possible on Zoloft lawsuits before deciding whether or not to take legal action against Pfizer. Damages may be awarded to some plaintiffs, depending on their case.