The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant sertraline, more commonly known by its brand name Zoloft, has been linked to several congenital heart defects, including pulmonary stenosis. Currently, Zoloft is classified as a pregnancy “Category C” drug by the United States Food and Drug Administration, meaning that is has demonstrated adverse effects in animal reproductive studies. Unfortunately, “Category C” medications can still be prescribed to pregnant women despite the risks they may pose. Many women do not believe that they were adequately counseled regarding the possible dangers to their developing child and decide to file a Zoloft Lawsuit against the manufacturers of this potentially harmful drug.
Zoloft Pulmonary Stenosis
When the valve between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery is unable to open as wide as it should, this is referred to as pulmonary stenosis. When this valve cannot open wide enough the result is insufficient blood flow to the lungs, meaning that the blood flowing throughout the body is not properly oxygenated. Zoloft pulmonary stenosis may occur with or without other congenital heart defects. Other names for this condition include:
Stenosis of the Pulmonary Valve
Vavular Pulmonary Stenosis
Heart Valve Pulmonary Stenosis
Pulmonary Valve Stenosis
Zoloft Pulmonary Stenosis Treatment and Complications
In mild cases of pulmonary stenosis, treatment may not be obligatory. In some cases, medications will be used in order to aid blood flow, strengthen heart beat, avert the development of blood clots, treat irregular heart rhythms and beats, and also to eliminate excess fluid. Other patients may need to have a surgery performed for the purpose of replacing the pulmonary valve, and a number of patients may have balloon surgery in order to widen the opening of the valve. In Zoloft Pulmonary Stenosis, about a third of patients will improve, one third will remain consistent, and the condition of one third will deteriorate. As with several other Zoloft congenital heart defects, the complications include cyanosis, heart failure, and death.
File a Pulmonary Stenosis Lawsuit: Talk to a Zoloft Attorney
Was your child born with pulmonary valve stenosis (or other birth defect) following the maternal use of an antidepressant? (Zoloft, Paxil, Prozac, Lexapro, Celexa, Effexor or other) If you answered yes, call the Willis Law Firm today. You and your child may be legally entitled to a financial settlement through a Zoloft Pulmonary Stenosis lawsuit. When you call, the talented legal professionals at our firm will provide you with the information you need in order to decide if a lawsuit is the right course of action. All antidepressant birth defect cases are taken on a contingency fee basis; we are now reviewing Zoloft lawsuits nationwide.