In 2004, a team of researchers led by PW Kaplan et al. published a report in Neurology showing “Women with epilepsy also have elevated rates of congenital anomalies and major malformations in their offspring, for which exposure of the developing fetus to AEDs taken by the mother appears to be responsible.” (“AED” stands for “antiepileptic drugs.”)
Kaplan et al. go on to state that “In utero exposure to some AEDs may also be associated with increased risk for impaired cognitive function in the growing child.”
As it currently stands, dozens of scholarly articles have been published showing that exposing a developing child to sodium valproate, the active ingredient in AEDs such as Depacon, Depakene, Depakote, and others, places that child at a dramatically-increased risk for serious congenital malformations.
Autism has been associated with maternal AED use, and congenital malformations associated with sodium valproate include neurologic, cardiovascular, and craniofacial birth defects. Specifically, spina bifida has been linked to sodium valproate, an ailment that “often results in damage to the spinal cord and nerves.” (quoted from the CDC page on Spina Bifida)
These, however, are not the only birth defects linked to sodium valproate (Depacon). For more information on birth defects linked to Depacon and other AEDs, follow the link above.
Due to the fact that the manufacturer of Depacon has time and again failed to warn doctors and patients of the risk for birth defects Depacon use carries, a number of Depacon lawsuits have been filed. If you or a loved one used Depacon during pregnancy and your child was born with a congenital malformation, you and your family may be entitled to significant financial compensation.
For a free, no-obligation case consultation, do not hesitate to contact our team of Depacon lawyers by phone at (855) 452-5529 or by e-mail at justinian@dangerousdrugs.us.
We have the experience, resources, and skills required to fight even the largest pharmaceutical companies and win the justice you deserve. There is no reason you should fight them alone. Call today and see how we can help!
Our Depacon Lawsuit Information page is a great place to start if you have any questions about Depacon.