Lexapro and Autism
Lexapro Autism Lawsuit Lawyers
Was your baby born with heart defects after you were prescribed the antidepressant drug Lexapro (generic name escitalopram oxalate)? If so, you should know that Lexapro is a type of drug known as a SSRI antidepressant medication that has been the subject of warnings by the FDA regarding dangers to babies when used by their pregnant mothers. Recent studies have also shown that antidepressants such as Lexapro can cause Autismin children when used by their pregnant mothers.
These heart defects may include atrial septal defects, ventricular septal defects, Tetralogy of fallot, hypoplastic left heart syndrome, transposition of the great arteries (TGA or TOGA), patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), total anomalous pulmonary venous return (TAPVR), double outlet right ventricle (DORV), and coarctation of the aorta (CoA)
Some SSRIs have also been linked to the birth defect craniosynostosis and with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
What is Lexapro?
Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate) is manufactured by Forest Pharmaceuticals as an antidepressant drug.
What does Lexapro treat?
Lexapro (escitalopram) is used to treat Major Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
Major Depressive Disorder is generally a depressed mood that usually lasts for at least two weeks that interferes with daily functioning. It can involve depressed mood, loss of interest in usual activities, significant change in weight and/or appetite, insomnia or hypersomnia, psychomotor agitation or retardation, increased fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, slowed thinking or impaired concentration, suicide attempt or suicidal ideation.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder is persistent excessive anxiety and worry for at least six months and is difficult for the person to control. It can include restlessness, edginess, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension and sleep disturbance.
What are side-effects of Lexapro?
In addition to the risk of suicide, there are great concerns regarding a possible link between the use of Lexapro and other SSRI drugs and heart defects in their babies.
If your baby was born with a heart defect after you took Lexapro while pregnant, contact Michael P. Fleming, former elected county attorney today to discuss your options.
