Zoloft, also known as sertraline hydrochloride, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class of antidepressant introduced to the market by Pfizer in 1991. It is typically prescribed to treat depression and obsessive-compulsive, post-traumatic stress and social anxiety disorders. Zoloft also is used to relieve the symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
The medication is not without its potential side effects. Among a long list that includes nausea, dry mouth, headache and blurred vision are also seizures, fever and hallucinations. Dangerous side effects have also been identified that can be harmful to a developing fetus.
FDA Restricts Zoloft
There is no effort to remove the product. No Zoloft recall is in effect. However, Pfizer has faced numerous plaintiffs in Zoloft class action lawsuits.
As problems with the medication become better understood, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has called for stricter prescription requirements and more stringent product warnings, which culminated in an October 2004 “black box” warning.
But recently is has been revealed that an even more serious side effect can occur: birth defects. In 2006, the FDA issued a warning about the potential for birth defects from Zoloft. Centered on the first trimester, a number of defects can occur including a cleft palate or lip, clubbed foot, delayed development, neural tube defects and craniosynotosis, among others. If your child has been negatively affected by this drug, pursuing a lawsuit might be the best way to be compensated for your medical costs and pain and suffering.
Also in 2006, the FDA analyzed the results of 372 studies of antidepressants and found that the medications could make children and teenagers hostile, irrational, violent or suicidal. The study found that even young adults (aged 18-25) were also afflicted with behavioral changes. As a result the FDA ordered antidepressant manufacturers, including Pfizer (for Zoloft), to include added warnings to consumers.
Recently, Duke University conducted a study that concluded that those with coronary artery disease faced greater risk of death due to Zoloft use. The researchers could not identify the reason behind the connection, but found it statistically significant. Those with heart disease, in an average three years worth of follow-up, about 21.4 percent of the participants still on antidepressants died as opposed to 12.5 percent who were not on antidepressants.
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If you or your child has suffered from the effects of Zoloft-related birth defects, submit this simple secure form for a free and confidential evaluation to learn more about your eligibility to file a Zoloft birth defect lawsuit. Legal action is the best way to recover the most compensation for your medical expenses and pain and suffering.