The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is actively handling atrial septal defect (ASD) lawsuits in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know took an antidepressant while pregnant and your child has an ASD, you should contact us immediately. You may be entitled to compensation and our law firm can help.
Michael E. Schmidt of The Schmidt Firm, PLLC has stated, “Our law firm has represented thousands of victims in pharmaceutical side effect and recall cases, however being a father of four, this particular litigation [antidepressant-induced birth defects] really strikes home. We are actively representing the children and families affected by the manufacturer’s inability to warn the mothers of the potential for congenital birth defects when taken during pregnancy.”
What are Atrial Septal Defects?
Also referred to as a hole in the heart, an ASD is a congenital abnormality in which there is an opening in the dividing wall between the upper filling chambers of the heart (atria). As a result, some oxygenated blood from the left atrium flows through the hole in the septum into the right atrium, where it mixes with oxygen-poor blood and increases the total amount of blood that flows toward the lungs. This creates more work for the right side of the heart, and this extra amount of blood flow in the lung arteries can cause permanent damage.
Which Antidepressants have been linked to ASDs?
The following antidepressants have been associated with the development of atrial septal defects in newborn babies, infants, and children if their mothers took them while pregnant:
- Paxil (Paroxetine)
- Zoloft (Sertraline)
- Celexa (Citalopram)
- Prozac (Fluoxetine)
- Lexapro (Escitalopram)
- Symbyax (fluoxetine and olanzapine)
- Wellbutrin (Bupropion)
- Effexor (Venlafaxine)
Types of Atrial Septal Defects
Several different types of ASDs exist. These include:
- Ostium Secundum Atrial Septal Defects -The most common type of ASD, which occurs in the center of the septum between the upper heart chambers.
- Ostium Primum Atrial Septal Defects – Occur in the lower part of the septum between the atria. Individuals with this kind of ASD also typically have additional heart defects such as mitral valve clefts.
- Sinus Venosus Atrial Septal Defects -The least common form of the defect, occurring in the upper part of the septum between the upper heart chambers.
Do I have an ASD Birth Defect Lawsuit?
Our attorneys are currently accepting ASD cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know took an antidepressant during pregnancy and your child was born with an atrial septal defect, you should contact us immediately. You may be entitled to compensation and we can help. Please use the form below to contact our Defective Drug & Products Liability Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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The Schmidt Firm, PLLC has been recognized as one of the nation’s leading plaintiffs' law firms and handles cases in all 50 states. We are very proud of our legal achievements, but equally self-respecting of our firm's reputation for providing personal attention to each and every client we represent.
