From a team of Swedish researchers, an article appearing in the November, 2009 edition of Neurologic Clinics titled “Teratogenic effects of antiepileptic medications.” provides important insight into the connection between prenatal exposure to epilepsy drugs Depacon, Depakene, and Depakote and cardiovascular and neurological birth defects. Because of a failure to warn, class-action Depacon lawsuits have been filed around the world. This article was written by T. Tomson and D. Battino.
The study team states that “Data on clinical teratogenicity are at best derived from carefully conducted observational studies, whereas randomized, controlled trials have no place in this research area. … New relevant information has become available during the last 5 years on pregnancy outcomes with 3 of the most frequently used AEDs: carbamazepine, valproate, and lamotrigine.” To be clear, valproate is the active chemical in Depacon, Depakene, and Depakote.
“Malformation rates with valproate have consistently been found to be 2 to 3 times higher compared with carbamazepine or lamotrigine. More limited data also suggest adverse effects of high doses of valproate on cognitive development of the exposed child.” (emphasis added)
The team continues, stating that “Based on these observations, valproate should not be a first-line AED for women who are considering pregnancy. In this situation this drug is best avoided if other effective but safer AEDs can be found for each individual woman’s seizure disorder.”
As such, this article can be used in a Depacon birth defect lawsuit to demonstrate to a court that the manufacturer, Abbott Laboratories, knew or should have known the risks associated with its product but failed to act.
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
Our Depacon Lawsuit Information page is a great place to start if you have any questions about Depacon.