Product Liability

Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the Newborn (PPHN) is a potentially fatal heart and lung birth defect. The usage of SSRI antidepressants, such as Paxil® and Zoloft®, after the 20th week of pregnancy can increase the risk of PPHN by 600%. Hypoxia from PPHN can cause permanent organ damage

The distinguishing feature of PPHN is unusually high blood pressure in the lungs. The abnormal blood pressure prevents blood from receiving oxygen in the lungs. Under-oxygenated blood can ultimately lead to hypoxia, where the infant's body does not properly receive all of the oxygen it needs. When the body is not properly oxygenated, all of the infant's critical organs are placed at risk of failure.

The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center explains the physical problems associated with PPHN: When a baby is in the womb, the oxygen is supplied through the umbilical cord. After birth, the baby's system should switch to receive oxygen from the lungs. In babies born with PPHN, the heart, blood vessels, and lungs (circulatory system) do not make the adjustment. When babies with PPHN are born, the blood does not interact with the lungs, and instead circulates as it did in the womb. Babies with PPHN do not receive the necessary oxygen from the lungs that is normally supplied.

The exact mechanism of how SSRI drugs, such as Paxil® and Zoloft®, increase the risk of PPHN is unknown. One theory suggests that excess serotonin collects in the lungs of unborn children, increasing pulmonary vascular resistance, requiring more work for the heart to pump blood. Another theory suggests that SSRIs can affect the synthesis of nitric oxide in the body, a chemical that controls the dilation of blood vessels.

Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should consult with a physician if they are currently taking, considering taking, or considering discontinuation of Paxil® (paroxetine), Zoloft® (sertraline), or any Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant. Other common SSRI drugs include Prozac® (fluoxetine) and Effexor® (venlafaxine). We are also investigating birth defects related to Celexa® (citalopram) and Lexapro® (escitalopram).