Titled “Major malformations in infants exposed to antiepileptic drugs in utero, with emphasis on carbamazepine and valproic acid: a nation-wide, population-based register study.”, a study by K. Wide et al. (2004) further demonstrates knowledge in the medical community that in utero exposure to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) containing valproate (Depacon, Depakene, Depakote, and others) is linked to birth defects.  This article was published in the February, 2004 edition of Acta Paediatrica.

[Click here to read an FDA warning on the risks of AED therapy in pregnancy]

This team writes that “Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are known teratogens. Some specificity between different AEDs has been noted in the literature. The aim [of this present study] was to compare the teratogenic effect of valproic acid (VPA) and carbamazepine (CBZ) in monotherapy.”

In all, about 1,400 babies with prenatal AED exposure were studied, and neonatal outcomes were compared to other babies born in the same period, numbering about 580,000 (Sweden).

Wide (2004): “The odds ratio (OR) for having a malformation in the AED exposed group was 1.86 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.42-2.44]. Exposure to VPA in monotherapy compared with CBZ in monotherapy gave OR = 2.51 (95% CI 1.43-4.68) for a neonatal diagnosis of malformations.”

This means that babies with AED exposure were 86% more likely to be born with a birth defect, and that valproate was 250% more likely to cause malformations than carbamazepine.

Since so many women have used these drugs in pregnancy unaware of the increased risk for serious birth defects (due to a manufacturer’s failure to warn), Depacon birth defect lawsuits are currently being filed in great number.

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.  For a free, no-obligation case consultation, contact our team of Depacon birth defect lawyers at the information provided below.  We have the compassion, experience, and resources 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.