In July, 2014, a team of Norwegian researchers led by K.O. Nakken published an article in Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen titled “Antiepileptic drugs and congenital malformations”, evaluating the consequences of prenatal exposure to epilepsy drugs containing sodium valproate, such as Depacon, Depakene, and Depakote (Abbott Laboratories, Inc.).  To-date, dozens of studies have demonstrated that a dramatically-increased risk for birth defects is linked to gestational exposure to these drugs.

Nakken et al. (2014) write “In pregnant women with epilepsy the use of antiepileptic drugs may increase the risk of harming the foetus. … The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and type of congenital malformations in children exposed to antiepileptic drugs during pregnancy.”

In all, 813 pregnant women with epilepsy were studied.  “The women had three check-ups during the pregnancy, and the children were followed up twice during their first year of life.”

Results showed “a total of 34 congenital malformations in the children, of which 12 were heart defects, yielding a malformation rate of 4.5 %. Six of the malformations (18 %) were detected prenatally, 20 (59 %) were reported immediately after birth, and eight (24 %) were discovered during the child’s first year of life.”

Due to the fact that Abbott has failed time and again to sufficiently warn women of these and other risks, thousands of Depacon birth defect lawsuits have been filed around the world.

If you or a loved one used Depacon, Depakote, or Depakene during pregnancy and your child was born with a congenital malformation or had perinatal complications, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation.  For a free, no-obligation case consultation, contact our team of Depacon birth defect lawyers at the information provided below.  We have the experience, resources, and skills required to win the justice you deserve.  Call today and see how we can help.

(855) 452 – 5528

justinian@dangerousdrugs.us

Our Depacon Lawsuit Information page is a great place to start if you have any questions about Depacon.