Orlando 3/10/2011 5:45:44 AM
News / Health & Wellness

Topamax During Pregnancy May Increase Birth Defect Risk, Warns Morgan and Morgan

Women taking Topamax during pregnancy may have an increased risk of giving birth to a child with an oral birth defect, warns Morgan and Morgan. According to the FDA, new data reveals that there is an increased risk for the development of cleft lips and cleft palates in infants born to women taking Topamax or the generic topiramate during pregnancy. Due to this Topamax pregnancy safety announcement, women who took Topamax during pregnancy and delivered a child with an oral birth defect may have legal recourse. To find out if you are eligible for a Topamax lawsuit, visit http://www.forthepeople.com/topamax-and-pregnancy--11-2895.html and complete the free case review form. Additional information on Topamax birth defects can also be found on the site.  

The FDA reports that data from the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry reveals that 1.4% of infants exposed to topiramate during pregnancy were born with cleft palates or cleft lips, whereas .38 to .55% of infants exposed to other epilepsy drugs developed these oral birth defects. The risk of oral birth defects was much lower (.07%) among children of mothers who did not take epilepsy drugs, such as Topamax, during pregnancy. In response to this new information, the FDA announced that Topamax will carry a stronger warning on its label regarding the use of topiramate during pregnancy. 

Cleft lips and cleft palates, which can develop in infants exposed to Topamax during pregnancy, are a type of oral cleft birth defect. These oral birth defects occur very early in pregnancy, when the child is still developing. Topiramate birth defects can range from a small notch in the lip to a groove which extends into the nose and palate. These Topamax side effects may lead to trouble eating and talking, as well as ear infections, in the infant. Commonly, cleft lips and palates are treated with corrective surgery. 

Women who took topiramate or Topamax during pregnancy and delivered a child with a birth defect may be able to recover financial compensation. The cost of medical bills, and other monetary damages, may be available to women who elect to participate in Topamax lawsuits. To find out if you may be able to recover financial compensation for your child’s topiramate birth defect, visit ForthePeople.com and fill out the free case review form for a no cost, no obligation review of your claim. 

About Morgan & Morgan

Morgan & Morgan is one of the largest Personal Injury law firms in the country with multiple office locations throughout Florida and the Southeast. The firm handles auto accident cases, personal injury cases, and medical malpractice cases, as well as claims against drug and medical device manufacturers. Visit Morgan and Morgan online at http://www.forthepeople.com/ for a free case evaluation and information about your legal rights.