The Problem with Paxil
Paxil is a type of antidepressant that belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) class of drugs and contains high doses of paroxetine. It is used to treat several conditions including panic disorder, depression, social anxiety disorder (SAD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The drug is also prescribed during pregnancy if the potential benefits of taking the drug outweigh the risks of Paxil's side effects during pregnancy as determined by the healthcare professionals. Unfortunately, many cases have been reported in which Paxil hindered the development of the unborn fetus and in fact was linked to certain birth defects.
Paxil Birth Defects
The following defects are observed in babies born to women who took Paxil during pregnancy:
The use of Paxil has been linked to birth defects in several research findings. For instance in July 2011, Obstetrics & Gynecology published a study stating Paxil use during pregnancy is connected with an increased risk of right ventricular outflow tract defects. The researchers warned the physicians to consider other treatment options before prescribing SSRIs such as Paxil to women who are pregnant.
Previously in 2005, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had warned pregnant women of an increased risk of heart defects in newborns when taking Paxil. It further asked the manufacturer, Glaxo Smith Kline (GSK), to change the pregnancy category to a stronger warning from C to D. Category D shows that controlled or observational studies in pregnant women have confirmed that there is a risk to the fetus.
Most of these defects are in the form of heart malformations. Some are minor and can be corrected themselves overtime, while others are more serious and necessitate surgical interventions.
Paxil Lawsuit Cases
Since Paxil was introduced into the market back in 1993, the drug's manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline Plc had reportedly paid up to almost $ 1 billion in settling lawsuits by 2009. This included a total of $200 million that was used to settle cases of birth-defects. Intriguingly, these settlements did not include over 600 other claims that have been made against Paxil and Glaxo regarding the drug having caused birth defects.
In October 2009, the case of one Lyam Kilker had been incriminating enough for Glaxo to have faced a liability of around $1.5 billion. The then 3-year old Lyam had been found to have developed a heart defect after being born, which was linked directly to his mother having been prescribed Paxil during pregnancy. However, a Philadelphia Jury found the pharmaceutical company liable for paying $2.5 million in compensation.
Obtaining Legal Help for Birth Defects
If you took this drug during pregnancy and your child was born with a birth defect, you could be eligible to file a Paxil lawsuit claiming compensation and damages. Although drug manufacturers evade the issue of causation by relying upon statistical figures, the fact remains that they did not actively inform the patients about the associated risks. By contacting an experienced Paxil lawyer, it is possible for you to file for monetary compensation against those responsible for the injuries and sufferings you have endured.
You can request for more information specific to your case by filling out the form provided on this page.
Q:I have heard of several paxil lawsuits. Is it a safe drug to use?
A:Paxil has been associated with various side effects in patients. It is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, as it can lead to serious side effects in the unborn children and mothers. Children under the age of 18 and young adults may also suffer from suicidal tendencies due to the drug. It is recommended that you consult your doctor before starting the use of Paxil.
Q:What is the benefit of paxil class action lawsuit?
A:Paxil class action lawsuit can be quite useful, if a group of people have suffered minor injuries or side effects of the drug and want to claim compensation. Since the legal costs of a class action lawsuit are divided, you will not incur a high cost. Besides, the increased number of people filing a case strengthens the claim and you are more likely to gain compensation.
Q:How can a Paxil lawyer help me with Paxil lawsuit settlements?
A:If you or your loved one has suffered from the side effects of Paxil, you can contact a Paxil lawyer to help you in filing a case and getting the settlements. Since a Paxil lawyer is experienced in similar cases, he or she will guide you about the procedure. Besides, the lawyer will analyze your case and make an estimate of the amount of compensation you can get for the Paxil side effects.
Q:How much Paxil settlement can one get for birth defects in a child?
A:The amount of settlement for the side effects of Paxil can vary from one case or another. If you want more information regarding the amount of compensation, you may contact a Paxil lawyer. You can also find a quick information form on our website that you can fill out to get free consultation on the matter.
Q:What can one gain from lawsuits against Paxil?
A:If you or your loved one has suffered from the side effects of Paxil, it is recommended that you file a lawsuit against the manufacturer so that you can gain compensation for remedial therapy. Besides, filing a lawsuit against the drug will also help in creating awareness for public about its dangerous side effects.
Q:How do I file a Paxil pregnancy lawsuit?
A:If you are interested in filing a lawsuit against Paxil, it is recommended that you look for a lawyer who is experienced in similar cases related to Paxil. A Paxil lawyer will guide you about the lawsuit procedure and will also make an estimate of the amount of compensation you can get for the side effects.