Depakote, an antiepileptic drug, has been linked to a 12 times increased risk of spina bifida for infants exposed in utero.

Depakote (generic: divalproex sodium) is manufactured by Abbott Laboratories and was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1983 for the treatment of certain seizures associated with epilepsy. It can also be prescribed for the prevention of migraines. In recent years, extensive research has linked maternal use of Depakote during pregnancy to many birth defects, including spina bifida.

Depakote Found to be Dangerous

The New England Journal of Medicine published a study in June 2010, which found that prenatal exposure to Depakote increases a baby’s risk of spina bifida by more than 12 times.

Spina bifida, a neural tube defect, occurs when the spinal canal doesn’t close properly during the baby’s development in the first trimester. The defect can range from mild, in which the child may never experience health problems, to severe, in which the baby is debilitated and may experience neurological damage.

In December 2009, the FDA issued a safety announcement reminding medical professionals that the risk of neural tube defects and other serious birth defects is increased for babies exposed to Depakote before birth. The FDA recommended that women of childbearing potential not use Depakote unless the drug is necessary for managing a medical condition.

Contact Us

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. One of our experienced and understanding personal injury attorneys will listen to your story and discuss your legal rights and options to help you choose the best course for your case. We are committed to obtaining the compensation you and your family deserve and are determined to hold irresponsible drug companies accountable for their negligent actions.