Many people are prescribed thousands of medications and treatments for infinite conditions and illnesses. One of the most common prescription drugs fall into the category of anti-depression medications. Anti-depressants have been used to treat emotional and mental illnesses in men, women, and children for several years, all over the world. They are generally prescribed by family and psychiatric doctors.

When it comes to these kinds of prescriptions, there has been a lot of talk about their effects on pregnancies in women. Families want to know if anti-depression medication can be linked to birth defects in newborn babies. We all know that pregnancy is a challenging and emotional time for a woman. For women who suffer from depression, most of the time a standard anti-depressant is prescribed to treat the condition. Although this has been a common practice in the medical world, there is now new studies that may prove that these drugs have the potential to cause birth defects and severe health complications if taken while pregnant.

SSRI’s and Birth Defects

There are many anti-depression medicines, many of which include SSRI’s or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Several of these medications, as well as other non-SSRI anti-depressants, have been linked to birth defects when taken during a woman’s pregnancy. Unfortunately, due to the inconclusiveness of many studies, the medical communities are simply unsure on whether or not the link actually exists. This means doctors and psychiatrists are still prescribing pregnant women who are suffering from depression and anxiety, anti-depression medication.

There is, however, evidence that one common type of anti-depressant causes a rare lung and heart condition in newborns. They are specific SSRI’s that include medications like Prozac, Celexa, Lexapro, Luvox, Zoloft, and Paxil. The lung condition that has been linked to these drugs is called Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension or PPHN. It is a very serious condition found in newborn babies that requires 24 hour comprehensive supervision and medical treatment. Unfortunately, even with intensive treatment, most babies will not make it. Their circulatory system is simply not strong enough to deliver oxygen to the soft tissue of the lungs and other major organs. As a result, babies suffer shock, brain hemorrhaging, heart failure, and many other serious complications.

If you or a loved one was pregnant and taking prescription anti-depressants like the ones mentioned above, and a child was born with health problems, contact an Indianapolis Medical Malpractice Lawyer right away. They retain the proper resources to investigate a case and determine if medical malpractice has occurred in any way. You could be entitled to compensation for your family’s damages, pain, and suffering.

Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C.

Call 317-881-2700 and speak with a licensed personal injury lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana today. Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. retains the state’s most accomplished accident attorneys and legal teams. Attorney, Daniel Craven, has more than 30 years of litigation and trial experience. We offer free initial consultations and never collect lawyer fees unless we prevail for you! Call 317-881-2700 and speak with a friendly and knowledgeable legal representative about your potential medical malpractice claim in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding counties.