Zoloft (Sertraline) and Other SSRIs Successful at Treating Depression, Just Not During Pregnancy

The class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) has been a lifesaving option for individuals struggling with symptoms of severe depression and other conditions.

Statistics show that in 2007, almost 30 million Americans were prescribed Zoloft (sertraline hydrochloride). It is used to treat symptoms of major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social anxiety disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder and other related conditions.

When Zoloft and other SSRIs were introduced in the early 1990s, they replaced tricyclic antidepressants, in use since the 1950s, to treat depression. SSRIs were deemed more successful at treating the symptoms of depression because their side effects are less pronounced that their predecessors. Zoloft in particular was deemed safe for use in adults and children.

Side effects of the drugs include mild nausea, diarrhea, insomnia and sexual dysfunction. As evidenced by the number of prescriptions written, millions of people are willing to put up with these mild discomforts in order to get relief from symptoms of depression and anxiety. Zoloft has also proven to be successful in treating depression in elderly patients, as well as in individuals with panic disorder. Overall, Zoloft and similar medications have a history of helping many patients without the difficulties of previous medications prescribed for anxiety and depression.

As with many prescription medications, there are risks we must contend with when we decide to take them. In the case of Zoloft and other SSRIs there are risks greater than an upset stomach and an occasional sleepless night. These drugs have been shown to increase the risk of suicidal thoughts in patients under the age of 25, and are now required to carry the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) “black box” warning stating that the drug might not be suitable for patients in that age range. Additionally, patients are at risk of experiencing “discontinuation syndrome” if use of the medication is interrupted. Patients can experience withdrawal symptoms along with a recurrence of anxiety and depression.

The latest studies conducted on Zoloft and SSRIs show that put unborn babies at risk of developing severe birth defects if mothers take the drugs while pregnant. In addition, babies can also be born addicted to the drug and will experience withdrawal symptoms in the first days and months of life. The FDA has increased its warning to include that pregnant women should discontinue SSRIs before getting pregnant and should not take them while pregnant. Birth defects have been known to include cardiac ailments, cranial abnormalities and limb deformities.

We all want to live our lives feeling as healthy as possible, both physically and emotionally. When doctors prescribe medication, particularly an SSRI, it is in the hope that it will allow a patient to overcome crippling depression and live a productive life. Patients must take an active role in their treatment by researching the drugs they are prescribed and weighing the pros and cons of taking them. If the benefits outweigh the risks then there is a very good chance that a drug like Zoloft will offer significant relief from depression and anxiety. If there is any doubt, a physician should always be consulted.

In the event that the worst happens, the Rottenstein Law Group is here to protect your rights as a consumer. Our Zoloft lawyers have over 25 years of experience assisting clients in mass tort and products liability cases.

If you feel you have a claim, fill out our contact form and one of our lawyers will get back to you to determine if you have a claim.