Mother Seeks Zoloft Lawsuit Settlement

Cheri D. Lewis of Texas is one of many mothers claiming that Zoloft birth defects have wreaked havoc on their lives. According to the lawsuit filed on October 26, 2011, in the Southern District of New York, Lewis’ child was born with multiple congenital heart defects, including hypoplastic left heart syndrome.

Zoloft lawsuit joins others alleging birth defects

Other Zoloft lawyers are reviewing similar claims on behalf of mothers and  children who may be entitled to compensation. Lewis’ Zoloft birth defect lawsuit, like other claims, alleges that the drug maker failured to warn about the risks associated with use of the SSRI medication during pregnancy. As a result they are all seeking either a Zoloft lawsuit settlement or compensation pursuant to a favorable jury verdict.

Lawsuits allege failure to warn about risk of Zoloft birth defects

Zoloft is an SSRI antidepressant, which has been linked to a number of health problems for unborn children when ingested by mothers during pregnancy. According the victims’ Zoloft lawyers, these birth defects are the end result of the drug makers’ failure to adequately research the medication and warn women and the medical community about the risk of Zoloft birth defect side effects.  As a result, they claim children have been left with permanent and potentially life-threatening health problems.

Studies examine SSRI birth defects

In June 2007, studies found an association between the use of antidepressants like Zoloft early in the pregnancy and a risk of abnormal skull development, gastrointestinal abnormality and brain defects. In September 2009, a study published in the British Medical Journal found that SSRI antidepressants like Zoloft increase the risk of heart defects when taken during the  first trimester, a time when many women do not even know they are pregnant.

According to other recent research, women taking Zoloft during the third trimester may face a six fold increase in the risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN).  Zoloft-induced Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension (PPHN) in the Newborn can result in circulation problems that may affect a baby’s ability to breath outside the womb because it makes it difficult for oxygen to reach the bloodstream. While surgery can treat PPHN, the child may still be left with a lifetime of difficulties and problems from Zoloft, including a risk of other health issues.

Meanwhile, Lewis and others filing claims against Pfizer will continue to monitor the medical research as it develops in the hopes of reaching a swift Zoloft lawsuit settlement.

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