Potential Middle-Aged Heart Problems Added to Zoloft Birth Defects

A new study indicates that in addition to Zoloft birth defects, the antidepressant medication can lead to heart problems in middle-aged men, HealthDay News reports.

Potential Middle-Aged Heart Problems Added to Zoloft Birth Defects

According to the news provider, men taking antidepressants such as Zoloft could ultimately be at risk for atherosclerosis, which can potentially increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.

The study, conducted by researchers from Emory University, found that antidepressants were linked with an approximate increase of five percent in the thickness of the carotid artery, which brings blood to the brain.

However, some experts who weren't involved in the study cautioned that the research did not prove a definite relationship between the medications themselves and heart problems, according to the news source.

The research, scheduled to be presented at the American College of Cardiology's annual scientific session in New Orleans, examined data on 513 middle-aged male twins, 16 percent of whom were taking antidepressants.

In addition to this latest study, Zoloft has previously been linked to the birth defect persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN).

Potential Middle-Aged Heart Problems Added to Zoloft Birth Defects

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