Zoloft May Lead to Autism

In-utero exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) has been “associated with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorders, particularly without intellectual disability”, according to a Swedish study conducted this spring. Other research had previously indicated a correlation between a mother’s use of these drugs during pregnancy and birth defects and a serious lung condition found in newborns. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, drugs in the class of SRRIs include, Paxil, Celaxa, Lexapro, Prozac, Luvox, Viibryd and Zoloft (sertraline hydrochloride). Researchers in the U.K. documented the autism study and published the findings in the April 19 edition of the British Medical Journal. However, experts at the University of Bristol associated with the study admit that their observations in Sweden warrant further study. Zoloft, a Phizer product, was approved in 1991. At that time, physicians lacked the knowledge to be able to warn their female patients so that they could have avoided the risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). New information about the increased risk of PPHN did not surface until about seven years ago. While more research on the autism connection waits, Zoloft’s label does warn of its apparent risk of lung disease by stating: “Infants exposed to SSRIs in pregnancy may have an increased risk for persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) [which] is associated with substantial neonatal morbidity and mortality.” The FDA says that, babies suffering from PPHN “have high pressures in their lung blood vessels and are not able to get enough oxygen into their bloodstream.” And now, as if the PPHN risk was not enough, a researcher based in Helsinki, published a study in December showing a link with Zoloft and increased risk of newborn “omphalocele, anal atresia, limb-reduction defects, cardiac septal defects and anencephaly.” Many class action lawsuits for Zoloft and similar SSRI-related actions have been filed and more are expected to be filed.

Zoloft Lawsuit Attorneys

If your child was diagnosed with autism and you took the dangerous drug Zoloft during your pregnancy, it is important to speak with a Zoloft lawsuit attorney immediately. The national Zoloft lawsuit attorneys at Phillips Law Firm can help. If you are interested in learning more about your legal options, call us at 1-800-708-6000. Our national Zoloft lawsuit attorneys are waiting to assist you 24/7, offering a free case evaluation. Remember our no fee promise. If we do not recover anything for you, you do not owe us an attorney fee.