Paxil, A Multiple Offender Drug, Now May Cause Birth Defects

WebMD is reporting that the FDA, based on a new study of Paxil, now warns that the antidepressant may be associated with birth defects. The warning is directly particularly at for women taking Paxil in the first trimester.

WebMD is reporting that the FDA, based on a new study of Paxil, now warns that the antidepressant may be associated with birth defects. The warning is directed particularly at women taking Paxil in the first trimester.

GlaxoSmithKline, the manufacturer of Paxil, says it will include the results of the study in the list of precautions for the drug.

A retrospective study found increased numbers of babies born with birth defects to women who were taking Paxil during the first trimester of pregnancy, as compared with women on other antidepressants, according to the FDA and the company.

Paxil has created concerns before.

Not that long ago we learned of a very different problem associated with Paxil.

In 2003 NBC News reported that “The Food and Drug Administration wants doctors to stop giving the antidepressant Paxil to children. The agency is reviewing reports that the drug may increase the risk of suicidal thinking and suicide attempts in children.”

“But health officials said children and teens now taking Paxil should not stop suddenly. Those who do stop taking Paxil will need medical supervision to taper off and avoid rebound side effects, which include abnormal dreams and shock-like sensations.”