Claris Law Legal Blogging Community

Name:

E-mail:

Phone Number:

Zip Code:

Your Question:

Editor: Robert Binstock
Profession: Paxil Side Effect Attorney

Category: Paxil Birth Defects

The makers of Paxil are being sued by a South Carolina couple who believe the drug is to blame for their daughter's birth defect.

6-year-old Taylor is living with a heart malformation that will affect her, her entire life. She won't be able to play sports or do activities or anything of the nature.

The girl was born in 2000, with a heart malformation that required open heart surgery within the first week of her life, followed by a second surgery before her first birthday.

The parents are suing pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKine, claiming they were never told that anti-depressant, Paxil, can cause birth defects in pregnant women. The mother was taken off heart medication but not off of Paxil.

Five years later, in September 2005, GlaxoSmithKline released the results of a survey that concluded there is an increased risk of heart malformations for women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. The Dismuke's attorney firmly believes Taylor's heart malformation is the result of Paxil.

As she grows, Taylor will have to have more surgeries. Due to the several powerful drugs she must take for her condition, she will not be able to give birth to children when she because a woman.

The case is expected to go to trial this year in Greenville. Only a jury will be able to decide if this case could have been prevented.