Many selective seratonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) anti-depressants have been linked to an increased risk of potential birth defects, and Lexapro is among them. This medication, manufactured by Forest Laboratories, was prescribed to many pregnant women for depression during pregnancy, and can cause a range of serious birth defects to the infant.Three mothers brought the first cases against Forest Labs and Forest Pharmaceuticals in February of 2012. Since then, many other mothers and families have sought compensation for the harmful side effects their children experience as a result of their ingestion of Lexapro during their pregnancies.After the drug was approved in 2002, it was widely marketed, without informing many potential patients of its side effects. Forest Pharmaceuticals has already paid over $313 million to the U.S. Department of Justice for marketing Lexapro for unapproved uses; but, they remain legally responsible for the damages inflicted on mothers and infants who have suffered because of the drug’s effects.

Birth Defects caused by Lexapro can include:

• Congenital heart defects and anomalies
• Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN)
• Down’s syndrome
• Undescended testes
• Blindness
• Spina bifida
• Malformations
• Clubfoot
• Cleft lip or cleft palate

Drug makers have a legal duty to warn about all potential side effects of their medications. Without this full disclosure, a pregnant mother cannot make an informed decision about the potential risk to her unborn child. When this information is kept from her and the baby is born with defects due to the drug, the company may be held liable.

If your child has suffered a birth defect after the mother took Lexapro during pregnancy, you may have grounds to seek compensation. The attorneys of Blizzard Law PLLC have years of experience holding even the most intimidating pharmaceutical companies responsible for the effects of their medications. We are not afraid to fight on your behalf. Caring for a child with a birth defect can be emotionally and financially draining.  Let us pursue your case while you focus on your family.