Birth Defects and Prescription Drugs

Birth Defects and Prescription Drugs: Understanding the Risks

The miracle of childbirth can sometimes be overshadowed by the unforeseen consequences of prescription medication use during pregnancy. Several pharmaceuticals intended to manage the health conditions of the expectant mother have been linked to birth injuries or defects, raising concerns and legal actions.

It’s crucial for pregnant women and those planning to become pregnant to be informed about the potential risks associated with certain medications. This awareness can guide discussions with healthcare providers about the safety of medication use during pregnancy, ensuring both mother and child’s well-being.

Our birth injury lawyers offer free consultations to parents where a medication error or injury in the mother or child is suspected. In some cases, the doctor or hospital may have committed medical malpractice by failing to warn women of the risks or prescribing an improper dosage. In other situations, a pharmaceutical company may have manufactured a dangerous drug or failed to warn healthcare professionals and the public about the risks to pregnant women and children.

Along with the above, choosing Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys as your law firm can provide you with the following benefits:

Types of Medications That May Cause Birth Injuries or Defects

Research and legal claims have identified several categories of prescription medications that are alleged to cause birth injuries or defects, including, but not limited to:

• Antidepressants: Particularly Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) like Zoloft (sertraline), Paxil (paroxetine), and Prozac (fluoxetine), have been linked to a range of congenital defects, including heart defects, Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn (PPHN), abdominal and cranial birth defects.
• Anticonvulsants: Drugs such as Depakote (valproate) and Topamax (topiramate), used to treat epilepsy and other conditions, have been associated with neural tube defects, cleft lip, cleft palate, and heart defects in newborns.
• Antibiotics: Certain antibiotics, including tetracycline and fluoroquinolones, are advised against during pregnancy due to their potential risk to the fetus, including teeth discoloration and bone growth issues.
• Blood Pressure Medications: ACE inhibitors and Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), such as Valsartan, used during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, have been linked to kidney problems and other birth defects in newborns.
• Chemotherapy Drugs: Medications like Methotrexate, used for cancer treatment, are known to cause various congenital abnormalities if taken during pregnancy.

How an experienced lawyer Helps with a Birth Defect Case

For families affected by birth defects associated with prescription drug use during pregnancy, legal recourse may be an option. Consulting with a lawyer specializing in pharmaceutical litigation can provide valuable insights into your rights and potential for compensation. These legal professionals can guide you through the complexities of the legal system and advocate on your behalf, seeking justice for your child’s birth injuries or defects.

If you suspect that your child’s birth defect may be linked to prescription medication use during pregnancy, seeking legal consultation can be a critical step. At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, our team of experienced specialized lawyers can evaluate your case, offer guidance on the available legal pathways, and represent your interests in seeking compensation and accountability from drug manufacturers.