A piece by medical researchers led by F.J. Vajda published in Acta Neurol Scand. (October, 2013), titled “Associations between particular types of fetal malformation and antiepileptic drug exposure in utero.” lives up to its title and provides more insight into the link between in utero exposure to epilepsy medication (Depacon, Depakene, and Depakote by Abbott Laboratories, Inc.) and birth defects. To be clear, valproate is the active chemical in the drugs listed above.
Aiming to “study associations between patterns of fetal malformation and individual antiepileptic drugs taken during pregnancy”, this team analyzed data “relating to 1733 fetuses from 1703 pregnancies (147 of which were not exposed to antiepileptic drugs during pregnancy).”
Results showed that “There were statistically significant (P < 0.05) associations between (i) valproate exposure and spina bifida, malformations of the heart and great vessels, digits, skull bones, and brain, but not hypospadias, cleft palate/lip and mouth abnormalities, (ii) topiramate exposure and hypospadias and brain maldevelopments, and (iii) carbamazepine (CBZ) exposure and renal tract abnormalities.”
“The valproate findings are mostly in keeping with the published literature, but the topiramate finding regarding hypospadias and the association between CBZ exposure and various renal tract abnormalities raise questions of organ specific teratogenesis. More extensive data are desirable, particularly in relation to topiramate, which is being used increasingly as a migraine prophylactic in women of childbearing potential.”
Because this research linked such a wide range of serious birth defects with Depakote, Depakene, and Depacon exposure, this article can be used in a Depacon birth defect lawsuit. If you or a loved one used Depacon, Depakote, or Depakene during pregnancy and your child was born with a congenital malformation, your family may be entitled to significant financial compensation from Abbott Laboratories.
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.