SSRI Injuries

SSRIs, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, are medications commonly offered by prescription to people who struggle with symptoms of anxiety or depression. Zoloft is one of the most widely used SSRIs, but there are others, including; Paxil, Prozac, Celexa, and Lexapro. These medications are routinely prescribed by medical professionals across the United States. The most significant issue with these SSRI medications is not whether they are effective but the problems they can cause for unborn children if the mothers take them during pregnancy.

Birth Defects and SSRI Medications

The rate of birth defects has been increasing in women who take Zoloft or other SSRI medications during their pregnancies. Many of these women have sought out a Texas personal injury lawyer to help them seek compensation for the harm to their babies that has occurred. Cranial defects have been observed, but the most significant issues come from heart defects that occur in some babies whose mothers have taken SSRIs. While these SSRI medications have been used since the very early 1990s, recent studies have indicated the problems that can occur to children of pregnant mothers taking these medications. Due to the number of women taking these medications they may be putting many unborn children at risk if they become pregnant while using them.

Stopping or Changing Medications Carries Risks

While it may seem easy to argue that the medication should simply be discontinued to reduce the risks, that is not an easy thing to do where SSRI medications are concerned. These medications get into the body and the brain, and just stopping them abruptly can be very dangerous. The best way to stop taking them is to be weaned off of them over a period of weeks or months, depending on the dosage being taken. However, if the woman is already pregnant, the length of time needed to get off the medication can put her unborn baby at risk for birth defects before the medication can be safely stopped.

Contacting an SSRI Injury Attorney

A Houston SSRI injury lawyer or attorney can help when you or a loved one has been injured as a result of an SSRI medication. Many of these injuries are life-changing and can prevent a person from working in the future. Additionally, the birth defects linked to SSRIs can mean a troubled life for children and their parents. When this occurs, fair compensation is necessary to ensure protection for children and their families. By reaching out for legal assistance, you will be taking an important step toward the preservation of your rights after a life-changing SSRI event.