California Woman Files Zoloft Birth Defect Lawsuit in St. Clair County Circuit Court

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A California woman filed a lawsuit Aug. 13 against drug company Pfizer, claiming that her baby’s birth defects resulted from her taking Zoloft while pregnant. According to the lawsuit (Case No. 14-L-594), which was filed in St. Clair County Circuit Court, Pfizer allegedly hid information about the birth defect risk and wrongfully marketed the medication for the treatment of depression and other conditions during pregnancy.

Pfizer is being accused of product liability, fraud and misrepresentation, misrepresentation by omission and failure to warn, among other allegations. The plaintiff in the case is seeking damages in excess of $50,000.

According to Melinda Helbock, Founder of The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock, A.P.C., the claims in the recent lawsuit are similar to those being made by clients being represented by the firm. Zoloft and other similar antidepressants have been linked to a number of birth defects when taken during pregnancy.

The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock, A.P.C. represents women who took Zoloft and other SSRIs during pregnancy and gave birth to babies with a number of serious birth defects, including (but not limited to):

Heart defects
Lung defects
Cranial malformations
Abdominal wall defects

Allegations have been made, accusing drugmakers such as Pfizer of marketing antidepressants for use during pregnancy, despite their knowledge of the potential risks to developing fetuses.

Of course, it is important to note that symptoms of depression can have a negative impact on developing fetuses as well, so women must weigh the potential risks against the benefits with their doctors. But, some women were not given the option of deciding for themselves, and were prescribed Zoloft and other similar antidepressants without having a clear understanding of the risks.

At The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock A.P.C., we represent women and families affected by birth defects and other adverse events associated with SSRIs such as Zoloft. To learn more or to schedule a consultation, contact us today.

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