Published in a 1999 edition of Annals of Neurology, an article by E.B. Samrén et al. titled “Antiepileptic drug regimens and major congenital abnormalities in the offspring.” provides important insight into the risks of prenatal exposure to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), something that has been demonstrated to greatly increase the rate of spina bifida, other neurological birth defects, autism, and heart defects. To be sure, this connection is mainly seen with drugs containing sodium valproate such as Depakote, Depakene, and Depacon (Abbott Laboratories, Inc.).
Samrén et al. (1999) write that “To assess the risk of major congenital abnormalities associated with specific antiepileptic drug regimens, a large retrospective cohort study was performed. The study comprised 1,411 children born between 1972 and 1992 in four provinces in The Netherlands who were born to mothers with epilepsy and using antiepileptic drugs during the first trimester of pregnancy, and 2,000 nonepileptic matched controls.”
“We found significantly increased risks of major congenital abnormalities for carbamazepine and valproate monotherapy, with evidence for a significant dose-response relationship for valproate. …
This study shows that most antiepileptic drug regimens were associated with an increased risk of major congenital abnormalities in the offspring, in particular valproate (dose-response relationship) and carbamazepine monotherapy, benzodiazepines in polytherapy, and caffeine comedication in combinations with phenobarbital.” (emphasis added)
Due to the fact that Abbott Laboratories did not warn women of these risks, Depacon birth defect lawsuits have been filed in great number around the world. As such, if you or a loved one used Depacon, Depakote, or Depakene while pregnant and your child was born with a birth defect, 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
Our Depacon Lawsuit Information page is a great place to start if you have any questions about Depacon.