Topamax has been a popular drug in recent years to treat epilepsy and migraine headaches. Recent studies have shown that the drug may be a factor in the development of birth defects and injuries like cleft lip or cleft palate when taken during the first trimester of pregnancy.
FDA Acknowledges Birth Injury Dangers Associated with Topamax
On March 4, 2011, the FDA issued a safety alert regarding the risk of oral malformations, and included the risk in a warning label that is now to be placed on each bottle of Topamax. The FDA also changed the pregnancy class that Topamax belongs to to Class D. Class D pregnancy drugs are categorized as those that can potentially present significant and unnecessary harm to a human fetus.
The findings come from studies performed by the North American Anti-epileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry. They concluded that birth defects, such as cleft lip or cleft palate, were at a higher occurrence when fetuses were exposed to topiramate (Topamax) during gestation.
The FDA has advised that Topamax not be prescribed for pregnant women unless the situation is life-threatening and safer drugs have been deemed ineffective.
Birth Injury Lawyers in New Jersey and Philadelphia
If your child was born with a birth defect that you believe can be attributed to your use of Topamax during pregnancy, contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation. You may also call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.
Let the birth injury lawyers at the Mininno Law Office earn you the compensation you need and deserve.