Lexapro®

Lexapro ® (escitalopram) is an antidepressant. It treats major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. It may increase the risk for birth defects in babies exposed to the drug during pregnancy.

Birth Defects Linked to Lexapro ®

• Abdominal malformations (e.g., omphalocele)
• Malformations of the cranium (skull); e.g., craniosynostosis
• Pulmonary (lung) problems such as PPHN (persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn)
• Cardiac problems (such as septal defects — holes in the heart)

Lexapro ® and Autism

Kaiser Permanente, the major healthcare system, published a study showing that the children of women treated with Lexapro®, or a similar SSRI, during pregnancy are two times as likely diagnosed with autism than women who did not take these medications during pregnancy.

Symptoms of autism can vary in severity. Autistic children have problems with communication, behavior, and relating to others.

High Blood Pressure in Pregnant Women

Lexapro® can also cause “pregnancy defects.” A study showed that Lexapro® can cause very high blood pressure (hypertension). Hypertension can potentially cause harm to the baby and mother.

Don’t Delay! Call Clay!

If you took Lexapro® while you were pregnant and your child was born with a birth defect, it’s a good idea to speak with a lawyer about concerns you may have about your child’s future. Contact our offices today for a free personal injury consultation.