Antidepressants Such as Paxil May Be Slower to Reach Developmental Milestones
Children of women who take antidepressants such as Paxil in the later stages of their pregnancy "are slower in reaching some developmental milestones," according to new studies performed by Danish researchers. A news report in HealthDay states that the scientists used data obtained from more than 81,000 babies born in Denmark. They found that babies whose mothers took antidepressants during the second or third trimester took more time to sit on their own or walk than children of depressed mothers who did not take these medications.
This particular study is not the first to show that antidepressants such as Paxil may affect fetal development. In 2009, a study in the British Medical Journal found that women who took such antidepressants during the first three months of their pregnancy were threatened with the higher potential of giving birth to babies with septal heart defects or malformations in the wall separating the right side of the heart from the left. Also, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as well as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists have issued warnings to consumers about the increased risk of heart defects and other birth defects associated with the use of Paxil during pregnancy. Paxil has also been known to cause other birth defects such as low blood sugar, vomiting, irritability and seizures.
If you are pregnant and are taking an antidepressant such as Paxil, please discuss the possible side effects with your doctor. Get a second opinion if you must. In some cases, the continued use of Paxil may cause devastating side effects. If your child has suffered birth injuries or birth defects because you used Paxil when you were pregnant, please contact Page Law to find out if you have a potential products liability or personal injury claim. Contact our experienced defective products MO injury lawyers by calling 314-322-8515 for a free consultation.
