Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) is a congenital birth defect characterized by a defect in which the baby’s arteries to the lungs remain constricted after delivery, limiting the amount of blood flow to the lungs and therefore the amount of oxygen into the bloodstream. In this article we will discuss the signs and symptoms and causes for PPHN.
Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn Lawsuit Update:According to a recent study published in the British Medical Journal, women who take SSRI antidepressants late in pregnancy are two times more likely to give birth to a child with persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN).
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with PPHN after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Signs & Symptoms of PPHN
Signs and symptoms of PPHN often appear immediately after birth and may include:
- Rapid heart rate
- Difficulty breathing
- Respiratory distress
- Bluish discoloration of the skin
Causes of PPHN
Antidepressants have been linked to an increased risk of congenital birth defects including PPHN in children born to mothers who took them while pregnant. The following is a list of antidepressants that have been linked to this type of birth defect:
- Paroxetine
- Zoloft (Sertraline)
- Celexa (Citalopram)
- Prozac (Fluoxetine)
- Lexapro (Escitalopram)
- Fluvoxamine
- Symbyax (fluoxetine and olanzapine)
- Bupropion
- Effexor (Venlafaxine)
FDA Warning
The FDA notified healthcare professionals and the public on the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants by women during pregnancy and the potential risk of a rare heart and lung condition known as Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn (PPHN). The initial Public Health Advisory in July 2006 on this potential risk was based on a single published study. Since then, there have been conflicting findings from new studies evaluating this potential risk, making it unclear whether use of SSRIs during pregnancy can cause PPHN.
Officials at the FDA have reviewed additional new studies and has concluded that, given the conflicting results from different studies, it is premature to reach any conclusion about a possible link between SSRI use in pregnancy and PPHN. However, the severe and ambiguous nature of potential SSRI antidepressant birth defects is still a concern. According to the FDA, the agency plans to further evaluate the safety and effectiveness of such medications.
Do I have a PPHN Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in PPHN lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with PPHN after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.