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Valproic acid linked to spina bifida: the FDA has not yet issued a recall
As of May, 2011, the FDA has not issued a recall for the seizure medication valproic acid (sometimes referred to by its brand name Depakote). Valproic acid is used to treat seizures, migraines, mania, and other abnormal moods. When taken in the first trimester of pregnancy, the medication is known to increase the risk of severe birth defects such as spina bifida.
“Valproate [valproic acid] can produce teratogenic effects such as neural tube defects (e.g., spina bifida). Accordingly, the use of valproate in women of childbearing potential requires that the benefits of its use be weighed against the risk of injury to the fetus. This is especially important when the treatment of a spontaneously reversible condition not ordinarily associated with permanent injury or risk of death (e.g., migraine) is contemplated,” warns the FDA (1).
Even though the FDA has not issued a recall, you still have the right to pursue financial compensation for the birth defects your child sustained as a result of valproic acid use. Weitz & Luxenberg can help you in this pursuit.
Contact our law firm today by filling out the form on this page for more information.
Spina Bifida: a devastating diagnosis
“When most babies are learning to crawl, and walk I was still struggling with the use of my legs…when I was born, my mother was told I'd most likely never walk.”
- A 23-year-old with spina bifida (2)
Spina bifida is a birth defect where the bones in the spine do not close properly. This can cause an assortment of complications during your child’s life including, but not limited to (3):
- Paralysis
- Mental disabilities
- Loss of sensation in certain areas
- Nerve damage
- Difficulty swallowing
- Meningitis
If you have given birth to a child with this condition and you were taking valproic acid (or Depakote), please contact us immediately. This devastating birth defect never should have happened, and we can help you pursue the financial compensation you assuredly deserve.
Weitz & Luxenberg: skilled attorneys ready to help
Weitz & Luxenberg can help you pursue the compensation to assure your child has the best possible treatment available. Having a fund put aside for your child’s future may help ease some of the frustration of having a child with a birth defect.
The compensation you could receive can go towards the following and more:
- Surgeries
- At-home care
- Physical therapy
- Hospital stays
- Medical devices
- Counseling
- Travel expenses
- General pain and suffering
Contact Weitz & Luxenberg today by filling out the form on this page. After submitting the form, a representative will contact you shortly. He or she will provide you with a legal consultation specific to your case. This service is free and does not obligate you to our firm in any way.
Sources
1: http://www.drugs.com/pro/valproic-acid-capsules.html
2: http://www.mylifewithsb.com/id15.html
3: http://www.medicinenet.com/spina_bifida_and_anencephaly/page2.htm#tocg
see also:
Depakote Lawyer
If you have been harmed by Depakote, a lawyer can helpAre you looking for a Depakote lawyer? Weitz & Luxenberg is currently representing families whose children have birth defects as a result of Depakote.
Valproic Acid Recall?
FDA does not recall valproic acid despite study proving that it increases risk of spina bifidaValproic Acid (Depakote) has not been subject to a recall, but the FDA warns that it can cause birth defects if taken during pregnancy.
Depakote
Have you or your child experienced Depakote side effects?Depakote is associated with several side effects. However, if you took Depakote while pregnant, you child could be at risk for birth defects.
