LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF TAKING ZOLOFT AND THE LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS Since its FDA-approved use began in 1992, the anti-depressant Zoloft, released by pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, has become a household name for the treatment of many psychiatric ailments. However, since its introduction into the market, the drug has been at the center of many lawsuits brought on by individuals and families who have been negatively affected by the usage of this anti-depressant. To know if you could become one of these families, it’s important to learn why these Zoloft lawsuits have come about, and what you or your loved ones can do to potentially take legal action. What Does Zoloft Treat? Zoloft is the brand name for sertraline, an antidepressant drug that falls under the category of selective serotonin uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and that is frequently prescribed for the treatment of major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, premenstrual dyphoric disorder (PMDD), social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and panic disorders. Zoloft works with the brain’s imbalanced chemicals, mainly serotonin, to improve the symptoms of depression. Since its introduction to the market, Pfizer has made over $1 billion in sales from the production and distribution of Zoloft. Long-Term Effects of Zoloft As with almost any other drug, there are side effects to be expected when taking Zoloft. However, the crippling, dangerous and sometimes fatal nature of these particular side effects has sparked public controversy and, in turn, many Zoloft lawsuits all over the world. In 1996, the FDA issued a rare warning advising the public that, although Zoloft was approved for the treatment of major depression and other conditions, it had not been approved for the usage in treating children under the age of 18. Furthermore, the warning suggested that Pfizer was misleading in its marketing of the drug and that its tactics were not in compliance with what the FDA had approved the drug for. That warning was only the tip of the iceberg. Some of the most damaging evidence against Pfizer and Zoloft has come out in recent years: Studies show that Zoloft can be associated with violent and suicidal behaviors, especially in children under 18. In addition, Zoloft is associated with Akathisia, a condition marked by extreme mood swings, irritability and violent and suicidal thoughts. Pregnant women who take Zoloft for depression put their unborn babies at risk for birth defects and a potentially fatal infant lung disease, Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension. Other long-term adverse effects of Zoloft include: jaundice, skin rashes, abnormal weight changes, frequent nightmares, increased anxiety, muscle spasms, loss of sex drive, and motor, sensory and cognitive difficulties. The apparent failure of Pfizer over the years to properly inform the public about these side effects and adverse reactions to this drug have forced many to seek Zoloft attorneys – lawyers who deal with Zoloft lawsuits on a regular basis. You are not alone If you or a family member has been affected by the usage of the drug Zoloft, you are not alone. Frenkel & Frenkel, a law firm in the Dallas-Fort Worth area specializing in dangerous prescription drug litigation, has a team of Zoloft attorneys that are ready to hear your story and help you make sense of your case. For more information, visit www.frenkelfirm.com
