Paxil or Paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor or an SSRI which is used as an anti-depressant drug. Paxil can be a dangerous drug. In pregnant women, Paxil side effects in form of birth defects in a new born may range from congenital heart defects such as atrial and ventricular septal defects, hypoplastic left heart syndrome, tricuspid atresia to pulmonary stenosis, neural-tube defects, craniosynostosis, infant omphalocele, congenital foot deformity (i.e. club foot), anal atresia, and certain lung defects. Paxil may cause a baby to be born with holes in the walls of the chambers of their heart, otherwise known as atrial and ventricular septal defects. There are other possible Paxil birth defects stemming from Paxil and pregnancy that include, seizures, vomiting difficulties breathing, tremors, low blood sugar and irritability.
Taking Paxil is especially risky for pregnant women in the first three months of their pregnancy. Women who have been known to take Paxil during their first trimester increase the risk of birth defects in their children. US Food and Drug administration has released a warning stating the risk of birth defects can be increased by two times the normal rate. Paxil's manufacturer, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) was forced to update Paxil's warning labels. In 2005, FDA issued an alert to health care professionals and patients warning them of a study that showed individuals who took Paxil were at an increased risk for birth defects, particularly heart defects. This study of 3,481 pregnant women suggested an increase in the risk of overall major congenital malformations for paroxetine (generic for Paxil) as compared to other antidepressants. Healthcare professionals are advised to carefully weigh the potential risks and benefits of using paroxetine therapy in women during pregnancy and to discuss these findings as well as treatment alternatives with their patients. FDA issued two additional warnings regarding antidepressant drug Paxil in July 2006. This follows the drug's linkage with an increased risk of suicide along with other SSRI-type drugs and is the latest in a series of GSK's woes. Some patients who take Paxil experience heightened senses of mania in which they become hyperactive.
FDA never approved Paxil for patients younger than the age 18 because of studies showing it was ineffective. Over the years, adults using Paxil have filed lawsuits over adverse side effects and problems associated with withdrawal. GSK is facing thousands of Paxil lawsuits caused by their lack of initiative to timely warn doctors and patients about numerous Paxil risks. GSK is facing a number of lawsuits from parents of children and adolescents given Paxil after making claims the company has suppressed data showing the drug increased suicidal tendencies in young people.
As with all cases of product liability and negligence, you should consult a Paxil lawyer regarding filing a Paxil lawsuit, in order to obtain compensation. Plaintiffs in these types of cases typically seek to recover damages for medical costs, lost wages and pain and suffering. If the attorney feels that further discussion and investigation is warranted, he or she will guide you through the process and provide you with quality representation when necessary.
If you or a loved one has been injured by Paxil, you may be entitled to damages including medical costs for pain and suffering. Please contact us today to speak to a Paxil attorney to determine your rights.