Topamax is an anti-convulsant used to treat seizures in adults and children over the age of 10. It is also used to treat migraines. The drug is not used to stop a migraine headache or seizure that is already in progress, but to prevent either one from happening. The drug has been approved by the FDA only for these two purposes, but has been used by doctors to treat other conditions. Legal action was taken, and the pharmaceutical company responsible for this was fined over six milliion dollars.
What Are Side Effects or Risks Associated with Topamax?
Topamax is associated with a few side effects and risks, some more dangerous than others. The most common side effect associated with the drug is numbness and tingling (parasthesia) in arms and legs. Other side effects include fatigue, change in tastes, weight loss, difficulty focusing, short term/non-severe loss of memory, nausea, loss of appetite, and diarrhea. No side effects seem to be long-term or life threatening.
Recently, the FDA announced a change in the drugs pregnancy classification from Class C to Class D. Data has shown that women who take the drug during at least the first trimester of pregnancy expose their fetuses to the risk of developing a cleft lip or cleft palate. Other birth defects have been reported as a result of Topamax use, but not at the same frequency as the oral clefts and malformations.
The FDA has suggested that doctors not prescribe the drug to pregnant women, or women of childbearing age, if there is another, viable option for treatment. Only when there is no other choice for treatment should a pregnant woman be prescribed Topamax (topimirate).
Birth Defects Attorneys in New Jersey and Philadelphia
If your child was born with a cleft lip or cleft palate birth defect and you believe the defect was brought on by your use of Topamax during the pregnancy, you may be entitled to compensation from Johnson & Johnson and/or Ortho-McNeil, the companies responsible for manufacturing and marketing the drug. Contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation, or call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.
Let our attorneys help your family earn your due compensation.