Lawsuit On Behalf Of Depakote Birth Defect Victims

April 3, 2013 | By O'Connor Acciani & Levy
Lawsuit On Behalf Of Depakote Birth Defect Victims

Depakote, also known as valproate semisodium or divalproex sodium, was introduced to the United States in 1983 as treatment for epilepsy, and later bipolar disorder. Medical literature soon reported cases of birth defects linked to the use of Depakote during pregnancy.  Some medical literature even defined a new disorder- Fetal Valproate Syndrome- to describe the common characteristics of birth defects linked to Depakote. The makers of Depakote at first claimed that any potential increase in birth defects was only a possibility, and that there was no cause-and-effect relationship between the drug and an increased risk of birth defects. However, by 2006 the label on Depakote had changed to indicate the existence of an increased risk of birth defects when taking Depakote during pregnancy, as compared to other anti-epileptic medications.  The label later indicated that the risk of birth defects was up to four times higher than with other anti-epilepsy medications. Our qualified personal injury attorneys are involved in Depakote litigation. We recently filed a lawsuit on behalf of a young girl who suffered severe birth defects after her mother took Depakote during her pregnancy. This child will have extensive lifetime medical needs as well as special educational needs. Ingestion of Depakote during pregnancy has been linked to brain disorder, defects of the eyes, facial defects, speech and behavioral problems, skeletal deformities and other difficulties. Our lawsuit on behalf of this child seeks to hold the manufacturer of Depakote responsible for the damages that our young client has suffered and will continue to suffer. If you believe that a member of your family has suffered from birth defects as a result of use of Depakote during pregnancy, then call our firm to discuss your case with our attorneys.  These birth defects can impact a child for their entire life.  Our lawyers want to help you seek compensation for the injuries caused to you and your family.