Can Depakote Cause Birth Defects?

In 1978, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the epilepsy drug Depakote (also known as Depakene, Depacon, Stavzor, Depakoteor, or Valproic Acid).

However, research shows Depakote is linked to birth defects in children of women who take the drug while pregnant. Some of these birth defects include:

• Spina bifida;
• Cleft palate;
• Abnormal skull development;
• Malformed limbs;
• Urinary tract problems;
• Holes in the heart;
• Autism;
• Developmental delays;
• and other cognitive issues.

What Are the Chances of Depakote Causing Birth Defects?

A study found that over 20 percent of pregnant women who took Depakote had a baby with a birth defect.

In 2006, the FDA required Abbott Laboratories, the maker of Depakote, to include a warning that the drug could cause severe birth defects. Additionally, the FDA reclassified the drug from a Class D to a Class X. A Class X drug means the risk of taking a drug outweighs its benefits in many cases.

If you have taken Depakote during pregnancy and your child suffers from birth defects, call (888) 841-9623 to speak with our personal injury lawyers at Zoll & Kranz, LLC. We can help get compensation for you and your child’s injury.

Zoll & Kranz, LLC – Defective Medical Drug and Device Lawyers