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Lexapro is a widely prescribed antidepressant for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, but it carries significant risks, including serious health complications and potential legal issues. Understanding the implications of using Lexapro is essential, especially for those seeking a lawyer near you to address any concerns regarding its effects.
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Discover the essential information about Lexapro, an antidepressant linked to serious health risks and potential legal challenges. Learn about its effects, including birth defects and the risk of suicide, and find an attorney near you to explore your legal options if you or a loved one has been affected.
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Jan 28, 2025 08:36 PM
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What is Lexapro? Everything You Need to Know
Lexapro, an antidepressant medication, is widely prescribed to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. While effective for many, Lexapro has been linked to serious health risks and legal challenges. This article explores Lexapro's uses, side effects, and the legal landscape surrounding it.
💡 For every post in this series, scroll down to “Related Posts.”
What is Lexapro?
Lexapro (escitalopram) is an SSRI antidepressant made by Forest Laboratories and Allergan. Approved by the FDA in 2002, it is prescribed to patients aged 12 and older for major depressive disorder and to adults for generalized anxiety disorder. Despite its effectiveness, Lexapro has been associated with dangerous health issues.
Injuries from Lexapro
Lexapro can cause a range of medical complications, from minor issues like heartburn to severe, life-threatening conditions. Some patients have reported heart defects, birth defects, congenital disabilities, and suicidal behavior. Serious side effects and birth abnormalities include:
- Cleft palate/cleft lip
- Club foot
- Spina bifida
- Dangerous heart syndromes
If you took Lexapro and became ill, you may have a valid personal injury claim. Other antidepressants like Paxil and Celexa have also been subject to class-action lawsuits.
Birth Defects
Pregnant women taking Lexapro have reported babies with congenital disabilities. The National Birth Defects Prevention Study found a link between SSRIs and health risks in infants. Women taking SSRIs during the first trimester had an increased risk of:
- Omphalocele: Organs protruding outside the belly button
- Craniosynostosis: Premature joining of skull sutures
- Anencephaly: Absence of part of the skull, brain, or cap
A study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that women taking SSRIs after the 20th week of pregnancy were six times more likely to have a child with persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN), a condition that can be fatal.
Risk of Suicide
Lexapro and other antidepressants can lead to suicidal thoughts and behavior. The FDA requires a black box warning on Lexapro about the risk of suicide, indicating a high risk of severe injury or death.
Lexapro Lawsuit Matters
Under product liability law, drug manufacturers must ensure their medications are safe. In Lexapro cases, plaintiffs claimed Forest Laboratories provided defective warnings about health risks. Plaintiffs argue that proper warnings could have prevented injuries.
Wrongful Death Actions
Families have filed wrongful death lawsuits in cases where Lexapro allegedly caused congenital disabilities or suicide. Some cases have settled, while others are pending.
Status of Lexapro Lawsuits
Most Lexapro lawsuits were filed in state court, but federal courts consolidated claims into multi-district litigation. As of September 2018, most cases were settled or dismissed. The last update was in November 2022.
Filing a Lexapro Lawsuit
Despite litigation, some patients still take Lexapro. With a black box warning now in place, lawsuits have decreased. If you become ill after using Lexapro, you may still have a valid claim. Contact a product liability attorney for a free case review.
Conclusion
Lexapro offers benefits for treating depression and anxiety but comes with risks and potential legal challenges. Understanding these aspects is crucial for anyone considering or affected by Lexapro. If you experience severe side effects, seek medical attention and consult a lawyer to explore your legal options.
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