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There is mounting evidence showing a strong link between the prenatal use of SSRIs, specifically Zoloft, and serious birth defects. Ongoing research has shown that Zoloft passes the placental barrier, potentially resulting in severe birth defects. The medication also passes into breast milk, so it should not be used by nursing mothers. If you were prescribed Zoloft while pregnant with a child, especially if you took the medication during the third trimester, you should be aware of the following information.

Uses of Zoloft

Zoloft has been used successfully to treat several psychological conditions. These include, but are not limited to, panic and anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, premenstrual dysphonic disorder and depression. It should not be used by pregnant women, even though doctors have commonly prescribed it to pregnant women.

Side Effects of Zoloft

Not everyone who uses this medication will experience any side effects, and no all infants who were exposed in the womb will have birth defects. However, this medication does have potentially serious side effects, especially for a growing fetus in the third trimester.

Ongoing research has exposed a strong link between the use of serotonin inhibitors like Zoloft and birth defects. There are several serious birth defects that may result when Zoloft is taken during the third trimester. These potentially serious birth defects include heart and lung problems as well as cranial and other bone deformities.

The following side effects are the most common, although they are not considered serious or dangerous. These side effects were noted during clinical trials for this FDA-approved medication. If you take Zoloft and note any of these side effects, you should contact your health professional immediately to discuss the problems.

Nausea and loss of appetite
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Trouble sleeping and drowsiness
Abnormal sweating
Diarrhea or upset stomach

Potentially Dangerous Side Effects

The clinical trials also noted several side effects that are potentially serious. They are not as common as the other side effects, and patients who experience these side effects should notify their doctor immediately to discuss discontinuing use of the medication.

Sudden tendency to bleed or bruise easily
Reduced interest in sex and inability to engage in sex
Weak muscles and unexplained muscle cramps
Tremors or regular shaking
Weight loss
Stools that are black or bloody

Zoloft Birth Defects

There are several serious birth defects which have been linked to prenatal Zoloft use. The presence of any of these conditions is cause for concern. The medical community can provide assistance in managing or treating these conditions if they are diagnosed quickly.

Pulmonary Hypertension – Also known as PPHN, this lung condition results in excessive pressure within the blood vessels of the lungs. The infants will have rapid breathing issues and high heart rates as the lungs struggle to pass oxygen into the blood stream. Irritated skin is also commonly seen with this type of hypertension.

Cleft Lip, Cleft Palate or Clubfoot – Bone and cranial deformities are also seen in children who were exposed to Zoloft while in the womb. The conditions can range from mild to extremely serious. Surgery can help correct these openings in the lip or gaps in the roof of the mouth. Ongoing surgery and special braces may be required to address problems with other limbs such as clubfoot.

Heart Defects – Newborns who were exposed to Zoloft have a higher risk of suffering from birth defects. Common examples include hypoplastic left heart syndrome, atrial septal defect, heart valve abnormality, coarctation of the aorta and heart valve abnormality.

Neural tube defects, anal atresia and abdominal problems are also seen among infants who were exposed to Zoloft.

Zoloft Litigation and Compensation