Depakote Lawyers for Birth Defects and Malformations in Infants

Austin Kirk

By Austin Kirk
Posted July 8, 2010

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The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. have been reviewing potential Depakote lawsuits for children born to mothers who were given the epilepsy drug during pregnancy, as the medication has been linked to major birth defects like spina bifida, cleft palate, malformations and other problems.  

Recent research highlights the risk of birth defects from Depakote, finding that exposure to sodium valproate, which is contained in the medication, more than double the risk for major congenital malformations in the fetus when compared with other epilepsy drugs.

Reports of Depakote birth defects have been found when the medication is taken as early as the first trimester. Unfortunately, many women were provided with inadequate warnings about the risk of birth defects from Depakote. Lawsuits are being reviewed to pursue compensation from the drug makers for failing to take adequate steps to ensure women who are pregnant or may become pregnant while taking Depakote were aware of the risk of birth defects.

Research presented last week at the 9th European Congress on Epileptology underscores the importance of providing proper warnings, as other epilepsy drugs do not appear to carry the same risk. When compared to use of Tegretol (carbamazepine) and Lamictal (lamotrigine) by pregnant women, the risk of birth defects from Depakote was found to be substantially higher.

LAWSUITS FOR DEPAKOTE BIRTH DEFECTS

Free consultations and claim evaluations are being provided by the Depakote lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. to help determine if compensation may be available for children born with birth defects or other malformations after use of the medication during pregnancy. Potential lawsuits over birth defects from Depakote are being reviewed for:

  • Spina Bifida
  • Cleft Palate
  • Abnormal Skull Formation
  • Malformed Limbs and Extra Toes/Fingers
  • Urinary Problems
  • Heart Problems
  • Mental Disabilities

To review a potential case for yourself, a friend or family member, request a free consultation and claim evaluation with a lawyer for Depakote.

1 Comment • Add Your Comments

  • Rita says:

    Is it known if Depakote given to small children could also cause mental disabilities? There may be such a case in our family.

    Posted on May 23, 2011 at 5:36 pm

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