Depression is a common and debilitating condition that can affect every aspect of a person’s life. Because of how common it is, antidepressants are among the most heavily prescribed drugs in America. Most antidepressants have only mild side effects, but some are linked to serious risks and side effects, especially in certain situations.

When taken during pregnancy, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can cause babies to develop a serious heart and lung condition called persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN). Unfortunately, depression is common among pregnant women, and SSRIs are the most commonly prescribed class of antidepressants. That puts millions of children at risk of developing this potentially fatal condition.

Other antidepressants that can cause health problems in both patients and their children include:

  • Depakote—This antidepressant can cause birth defects such as spina bifida, autism, and reduced IQ.
  • Paxil—This SSRI can cause heart defects and a condition called anencephaly, which is an incomplete growth of the top of the skull and brain.
  • Prozac—This SSRI can cause PPHN, autism, and septal defects, which is a condition that causes babies to be born with holes in their hearts.
  • Zoloft—This SSRI can cause PPHN and omphalocele, a condition that causes a baby’s organs to grow outside of their body.

If you or your child was harmed by an antidepressant, whether it was an SSRI or another class of drug, our drug injury lawyers want to help. Contact Ferrer Poirot Feller Daniel today for a free consultation.