The popular antidepressant Zoloft has been found to increase the risk for serious birth defects in babies whose mothers took the antidepressant during their pregnancies. If you were prescribed Zoloft while you were pregnant and your baby was born with complications, you may be eligible for a significant amount of compensation. To learn more, contact The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock A.P.C.

Who Qualifies to File a Zoloft Birth Defect Lawsuit?

Any woman who was prescribed Zoloft during her pregnancy and then gave birth to a child with complications may be eligible to file a lawsuit, particularly those who were not aware of the risks.

Studies have shown Zoloft and other similar antidepressants may increase the risk for a number of birth defects, ranging from mild to severe. Some of these include:

  • Heart defects (holes in the heart)
  • Lung defects
  • Skull malformations
  • Abdominal defects
  • Neural tube defects

Zoloft belongs to a class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which have been collectively tied to a number of complications in newborns who were exposed during fetal development. Some of these other complications include agitation, seizures and abnormal muscle tone.

Should You Contact an Attorney?

If your baby has been diagnosed with a birth defect and you took Zoloft while you were pregnant, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible to find out if you qualify to pursue damages. While financial compensation won’t reverse the damage that has been done, it can help make it possible for you to take time off work and care for your child.

Damages that may be awarded in a birth defect lawsuit include:

  • Medical bills, present and future
  • Cost of care, whether it is you taking time off work to care for your child or paying someone to care for him/her
  • Lost wages for the time you take off work to be with your child
  • All treatments, including therapy and equipment such as a wheelchair
  • Pain and suffering

Every case is different and comes with its own set of unique circumstances. Thus, it is important to work with an experienced birth defect lawyer who will ensure that you recover the maximum amount of compensation possible.

At The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock A.P.C., we recognize the sensitivity of birth defect cases and help affected parents and families get the compensation they need to make sure their child has the highest quality of life. If you or someone you love took Zoloft while pregnant and gave birth to a child with complications, please call us today. We offer free case evaluations and will not accept payment unless we win your case.