Depakote can cause birth defects
Abbott Laboratories makes Depakote, the brand name for the drug divalproex sodium, which is manufactured to treat epilepsy. The FDA approved the drug in 1983, and it can also be used to treat depression, migraine headaches, and bipolar disorder. The drug is manufactured in a way to cause the shell of the pill to dissolve in the small intestine instead of the stomach. This helps the drug to better work for its intended use.
Studies have shown that women who take Depakote during pregnancy have a three times higher chance of having a child born with major birth defects than women who did not take the medication while pregnant. Although the most common form of birth defect associated with taking Depakote during pregnancy is spina bifida, there are many other types of birth defects that have been reported, such as:
- Craniofacial defects
- Cleft palate
- Abnormal skull formation
- Neural tube defects
- Cardiovascular malformations
- Cognitive impairment
- Valproate syndrome
- Limb and skeletal defects, malformed limbs
- Extra fingers or toes
- Heart defects
Depakote receives two “black box” warnings
In 2006, Abbott Laboratories was required by the FDA to put the highest warning on the Depakote packaging, known as a “black box” warning, about the potential for birth defects when pregnant women use the drug. It has been shown in multiple studies that the potential for birth defects is higher with Depakote than with other similar epilepsy medications. Two years later, the FDA required a second black box warning about users attempting suicide. At this time, Depakote is still available as a prescription medication used to treat epilepsy and other conditions.
Do you have a case?
If you took Depakote as a prescription medication while you were pregnant and your child was born with a severe birth defect, such as spina bifida, then you may have a case. It is important to contact us right away so we can determine the best course of action regarding your personal situation.
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