Although Zoloft is used in the treatment of depression, this prescription drug has a number of harmful side effects and birth defects that can wreak havoc in the lives of the victims. In some cases, the risks of treating depression with this drug can far exceed the risks of not doing so and so can potentially decrease your quality of life even further. Furthermore, a child born with such defects can face a lifetime of pain, physical therapy, surgeries and even humiliation at the hands of those that do not understand the causes.
According to the FDA, children, adolescents and young adults that are being treated with Zoloft experience increased suicidal thoughts or actions. They may undergo sudden behavioral changes and become aggressive and violent. Consequently, they may also attempt to commit suicide as well.
Serotonin SyndromePatients taking Zoloft can experience hallucination, agitation and seizures in this condition. The uncontrolled muscle seizures can lead to severe muscle damage. This damage in turn releases substances into the blood that passes through the kidneys and lead to many internal and skin related complications. These can include, severe nausea, diarrhea, excessive sweating and involuntary quivering, stomach cramps, skin rashes or hives, nose bleeds, a breakout of purple or red spots on the skin and severe dizziness to name a few.
Their mental state of mind may lead them towards self-destructive behavior. This condition can become life-threatening, and so requires prompt medical attention.
Birth DefectsThe side effects associated with Zoloft intake during pregnancy are even more serious. Research studies have shown that Zoloft increases the risk of several birth defects. These include holes in the heart, cleft palate, spina bifida, skull defects, club feet, and persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). These defects can permanently affect the quality of life of their children.
In 2006, a research study conducted at the University of California at San Diego published its results on birth defects related to Zoloft. The findings showed that if this drug is taken after the 20th week of pregnancy, there is a 600% increased risk that the child will be born with Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn (PPHN). In this serious condition, the function and efficiency of lungs is compromised. This study was followed by another one disclosing the long term side effects Zoloft can have on the unborn fetus. According to the research findings published by the National Birth Defects Prevention Study of Infants and the New England Journal of Medicine in 2007, it was found that SSRI drugs (that include Zoloft) are linked to abdominal birth defects (omphalocele) and cranial defects (craniosynostosis).
Exercising your Legal RightsZoloft was first marketed in 1991 by Pfizer Pharmaceutical. It soon became one of the most widely prescribed antidepressant drugs. In 2005, the FDA issued a warning letter to Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, highlighting that the company omitted information about the increased risk of suicidal tendencies associated with Zoloft in their advertising material. Although the drug now comes with a black box warning label, it still shows that the drug makers initially marketed the drug in a manner that compromised the safety of consumers and their children due to misleading and false advertisements.
If you believe that you or your loved ones have experienced side effects after being exposed to Zoloft, you may have grounds for filing a lawsuit to claim compensation for the medical expenditure borne and suffering undergone. The long term side effects Zoloft are particularly debilitating, especially in the case of birth defects.
Please fill out the form above to request for more information regarding your specific case.Q:What are the side effects of Zoloft?
A:There are a number of side effects associated with Zoloft. These include muscle stiffness, high fever, uneven heartbeats, dizziness, sleep problems, vomiting, hallucinations, tremors, nausea, and loss of appetite. Patients may also go through concentration problems, suicidal thoughts, and lack of concentration. Various birth defects are also associated with the drug.
Q:Can you give me information about Zoloft side effects in women?
A:Zoloft is associated with a number of side effects in women. Some dangerous side effects include increasing likelihood of suicidal actions, serotonin syndrome, and birth defects in unborn children. Patients may also suffer from various other psychological and physical side effects of Zoloft, including the withdrawal side effects of the medicine.
Q:Can you tell me about Zoloft side effects in men?
A:Men and women go through several similar side effects of Zoloft. These side effects include high fever, nausea, lack of concentration, tremors, hallucinations, sleep problems, and loss of appetite. However, there can be some rare side effects that are associated with men. Side effects are related to appetite, sleep, and sexual health.
Q:Can you tell me about the long term side effects Zoloft?
A:A little is known about the long term side effects of Zoloft. However, the drug can result in worsening of depression and increase in the frequency of suicidal thoughts. There can also be withdrawal side effects of the drug, in case a patient stops the drug abruptly. Various emotional and mental symptoms are also associated with the long term use of Zoloft.
Q:What can you tell me about Zoloft side effects weight loss?
A:Zoloft can have a number of side effects on your sleep patterns, mental and emotional states, and your appetite as well. All these side effects can result in weight changes including weight loss. It is recommended that you consult a doctor about the possible side effects of any anti depressant before using it.
Q:Can you tell me about Zoloft common side effects?
A:There are a number of common side effects associated with the use of Zoloft. Major side effects include drowsiness, nausea, weight loss, weakness, headache, sexual problems, and low energy level. Patients may also go through excessive sweating, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Chronic trouble in sleeping can be another common side effect of Zoloft.
Q:Can you give me information on Zoloft side effects children?
A:Zoloft and various similar antidepressants can have some serious side effects in children. FDA has also issued a warning on Zoloft that states that it can increase the risk of suicidal effects in children and adults under the age of 25. You may discuss these side effects with your doctor and also look for alternate options.
Q:What are the Zoloft side effects possible side effects?
A:Zoloft side effects can be categorized into rare and frequent side effects. Besides, the drug can have varied side effects on patients. Young adults and children may have suicidal thoughts after the intake of the drug. Pregnant women can have side effects on their own health and may experience birth defects. Other side effects in patients include loss of appetite, sleep problems, sexual problems, weight loss, excessive sweating, weakness, headaches, and diarrhea.