Paxil (generic: paroxetine) is an antidepressant medication typically used in the treatment of anxiety major depressive disorders. Unfortunately, the fetuses of pregnant mothers using Paxil are at an increased risk of developing a birth defect.
Paxil Overview
GlaxoSmithKlein introduced Paxil into the U.S. market in the early 1990’s as a medication to aid in the treatment of major depressive disorders. Since its inception, Paxil has been one of the most popular antidepressants on the market. However, recent studies suggest that the use of Paxil by pregnant women may increase the chances of their child developing a severe, life-threatening congenital birth defect.
Side Effects of Paxil
The following side effects have been linked to Paxil:
- Atrial Septal Defect and Ventricular Sepatal Defect
- Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn
- Valve Problems – malformed or stuck and won’t close
- Tricuspid Valve (Ebstein’s Anomaly)
- Mitral Valve
- Transposition of the Great Arteries / Vessels
- Tetralogy of the Fallot
- Hypoplastic Right Heart Syndrome (HRHS)
- Tricuspid Atresia
- Aortic Stenosis
- Pulmonary Atresia
- Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
- Coarctation of the Aorta
- Truncus Arteriosus
- Tricuspid Valve Stenosis
- Heart Murmur
- Pulmonary Stenosis
- Gastroschisis – abdominal wall defect
- Esophageal Stenosis
- Club Foot
- Anal Atresia
- Spina Bifida