Zoloft (generic: sertraline) is a prescription antidepressant medication that is estimated to have been prescribed to hundreds of millions of people world wide. Its unique formula is indicated to assist in the relief of symptoms associated with depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
However, recent years have witnessed Zoloft become the subject of increasing criticism. Of significant concern, however, are the recent associations that have been established between Zoloft and its use in certain populations. Accordingly, maternal treatment with Zoloft may significantly increase a child’s risk of developing a distinct set of debilitating and potentially life-threatening birth defects.
In accordance with the influx of adverse reports, Pfizer, the developer of Zoloft, has witnessed an exponential increase in the amount of Zoloft lawsuits being filed. Furthermore, 19 Zoloft lawsuits were recently filed against Pfizer after a group of mothers claimed that their children suffered from birth defects due to Zoloft treatment during pregnancy.
Pfizer developed Zoloft in 1991, where it received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on December 30 of that same year. Immediately after being introduced to the U.S. market Zoloft was indicated to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder, and social anxiety disorder. However, prescriptions are also written to relieve the symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), including mood swings, irritability, bloating, and breast tenderness.
Sertraline, the active ingredient found in Zoloft, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). As an SSRI, sertraline is believed to influence specific aspects of an individual’s mood by increasing the ratio of serotonin in the brain. While the chemical reactions associated with mood disorders remain ambiguous, it is widely recognized that chemical messengers (neurotransmitters) facilitate communication between nerve cells in the brain and are involved in regulating many aspects of behavior. Subsequently, these neurotransmitters have a significant role in the development of mood disorders. Therefore, SSRIs are specifically designed to block the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain. In doing so, larger amounts of serotonin are able to stimulate nerve cells and influence the mood of an individual.
Unfortunately, however, reports have acknowledged a potential link between the maternal use of Zoloft and the development of severe birth defects. As a result, 19 Zoloft lawsuits were recently filed against Pfizer after a group of mothers claimed that their children suffered from birth defects due to Zoloft treatment during pregnancy. According to court documents, children of the plaintiffs were born with several birth defects that included: atrial septal defect, multiple holes in the heart and/or began to suffer from persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn, neural tube defects, craniofacial defects and other adverse malformations.
According to the complaints of the 19 Zoloft lawsuits, the congenital birth defects were a direct result of the maternal use of the antidepressant. However, the complaints further allege that Pfizer knew of these potential risks and did nothing to adequately warn consumers. They claim the drug is defective; dangerous to human health; unfit and unsuitable to be marketed and sold; and lacks the proper warnings as to the dangers associated with its use.
Do I Have a Zoloft 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 Zoloft lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
If you or a loved one has had a child develop birth defects after taking Zoloft during pregnancy, you may be entitled to financial compensation. For a free case review, please click the link below or call toll free 24 hrs/day 1-(949) 557-5800.