Effexor and Birth Defects
Known generically as venlafaxine, Effexor is a serotonin and norepinephrine re-uptake inhibitor (SNRI) anti-depressant manufactured by Wyeth, now a unit of Pfizer. Effexor was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1993 to treat patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder and general anxiety.
Effexor has been categorized as Pregnancy Category C drug by the FDA. This categorization signifies that there is a significant risk of children developing birth defects when drugs like Effexor are used by pregnant women.
The American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology published a research article in 2010 about the link between SNRI anti-depressants, such as Effexor, and birth defects. The data collected in this study revealed that the risk of birth defects, specifically heart defects, in children exposed to SNRIs in the womb doubled when compared to those who were not exposed to such an anti-depressant.
Effexor & Birth Defects
Effexor use during pregnancy has been linked to a number of birth defects, including persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN), a condition in which blood flow bypasses the lungs resulting in hypoxemia. Still, one of the most commonly reported birth defects associated with Effexor exposure are heart defects.
Children exposed to Effexor have been born with a heart deformity called a left outflow heart defect. A left outflow heart defect is when the child’s abnormally narrow aorta results in inadequate blood flow, which in turn causes further health issues.
Carey Danis & Lowe is Here to Help
A national law firm based in St. Louis, Carey Danis & Lowe represents victims of defective drugs, including Effexor. If your child was born with congenital birth defects, including a left outflow heart defect, after exposure to Effexor, Carey Danis & Lowe can assist you and your family in seeking legal recourse.
Discuss your case and legal options with a Carey Danis & Lowe Effexor birth defect lawyer. Our initial consultations are free.
Carey Danis & Lowe Effexor lawyers are highly experienced in handling personal injury claims and pharmaceutical litigation involving defective drugs. We work closely alongside our team of medical professionals as well as our clients in developing strong court cases.
For more information about Effexor and birth defects, and for assistance with filing an Effexor birth defects lawsuit, contact Carey Danis & Lowe by phone at 800.721.2519, or by completing a confidential personal injury claim.
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