Zoloft Birth Defect Lawsuit Filed Against Pfizer

Eight different couples have filed a lawsuit against Pfizer, claiming that the ingestion of its popular anti-depressant, Zoloft, during pregnancy causes birth defects. The claim, which was filed on November 4 in St. Clair County Circuit Court, alleges that children were born with varying birth defects, including heart defects, club foot, neural tube defects, craniosynostosis, gastroschisis, omphalocele, cleft lip, limb reduction defects and anal atresia as a result of their mothers’ ingestion of Zoloft while pregnant. Of the eight plaintiffs, two reside in Illinois while the others come from Indiana, Minnesota, Florida, Wisconsin, Texas and New York, according to the Madison St. Clair Record.

Studies from as far back as 2007 suggest a link between the ingestion of SSRIs by pregnant women and birth defects.

Reportedly, the complaint alleges that Pfizer was aware or should have been aware that Zoloft crosses the placenta and may have effects on the developing fetus. Further, it alleges that Pfizer knew of the dangers to pregnant women and not only failed to disclose those dangers to the public, but continued to market Zoloft as the safest anti-depressant for expectant mothers. According to the Zoloft birth defect lawsuit, the plaintiffs only took the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) because they believed it was safe for use during pregnancy.

Studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine from as far back as 2007 suggest a link between the ingestion of SSRIs by pregnant women and birth defects. One study found that women taking Zoloft in the early months of pregnancy had twice the risk of having a baby born with a heart defect. According to the same study, women taking Paxil had more than three times the risk of having a baby born with a heart defect. Reportedly, Paxil also increased the risk of omphalocele. The birth defect risk for pregnant mothers on SSRIs is still relatively low, however, according to various researchers.

If you took this drug while pregnant and delivered a child with a Zoloft birth defect, you may be entitled to compensation for a number of damages, including medical bills. To find out if you are eligible, fill out the form on the right to receive a free case review.