Lexapro Lawsuit 2011
Lexapro is a type of drug called a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor, which alters the way the brain absorbs the chemical serotonin, which scientists link to depression. If your child developed a birth defect caused by using this drug during pregnancy, please contact us for the latest Lexapro lawsuit 2011 news.
Lexapro and other SSRIs, such as Prozac, Paxil and Zoloft, have all been linked to numerous side effects. Some of the side effects are mild and include problems such as dry mouth, nausea, dizziness and sexual dysfunction.
Some of the side effects presented dangers to a specific group of people. For example, studies found that SSRIs like Lexapro could actually increase the occurrence of suicidal thoughts, particularly when used by children, teens and young adults.
Most recently, researchers have found that using Lexapro during pregnancy can increase the likelihood of babies being born with certain birth defects.
Most Common Types of Lexapro Birth Defects
Atrial and ventricular septal defects occur when the wall in the heart that separates the right and left sides of the atria and ventricles has an opening or hole in it. This opening allows oxygen-poor blood from one side of the heart to merge with oxygen-rich blood on the other, resulting in decreased oxygen in the lungs and lung pressure.
Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn is a critical condition that occurs when a newborn’s body does not make the natural transition to breathing air through the lungs upon birth. Immediate medical treatment, including mechanical breathing machines, may be used to prevent complications from oxygen deprivation or death.
Craniosynostosis occurs when the sutures that are attached to the baby’s skull fuse prematurely, not allowing the brain enough space to develop. Doctors may perform surgery or use helmets to try to reposition the skull. Because the brain may not have the necessary space, children with craniosynostosis may have developmental delays, abnormally shaped heads and cranial pressure.
Spina bifida can be found when the spinal column does not close completely and portions of the spine protrude. Depending on the severity of the condition, spina bifida can be mild or can cause paralysis, chronic pain and developmental delays.
Omphaloceles are openings in the abdominal wall that allow organs to protrude through the umbilical opening. Surgery is usually necessary to reposition the organs. Babies born with omphaloceles may need repeated surgeries to allow the stomach time to grow before re-inserting the organs. Children with omphaloceles may continue to have eating and digestive problems.
If you used Lexapro or another SSRI during pregnancy, and your child was born with a birth defect, the medication you used could be the cause. We are currently investigating Lexapro lawsuit 2011 claims for families who believe the manufacturers of these drugs should be held accountable for the damage they have caused. If you would like more information on how these claims may affect you, we invite you to contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation. There is currently no national Lexapro lawsuit class action and we are representing individual families in bringing claims on behalf of their child.