New Depakote Pregnancy Study Could Spark Birth Defect Lawsuits

The potential rise in Depakote lawsuits could be provoked by the widespread publicity surrounding the link between Depakote pregnancy use and decreased cognitive function in children, cited in the study “Neurodevelopmental Effects of Antiepileptic Drugs.” The study began over a decade ago and followed children exposed to Depakote in the womb up until they were six years old.

Researchers found a 9% to 10% decrease in these children’s IQ compared to children not exposed to Depakote.  This has led Depakote birth defect attorneys to begin investigations into potential legal claims against the drug’s maker, Abbott Laboratories. Other companies may be listed as plaintiffs in some states, or even on a national basis, depending on an upcoming Supreme Court decision regarding generic pharmaceutical companies’ liability.

Regardless, as more parents and their children realize the connection between cognitive issues and Depakote side effects, expect more victims to seek out legal representation. It is not just an issue of decreased quality of life; a drop in IQ could limit educational possibilities and even employment options. In addition, it is not just cognitive issues, but also anatomic problems similar to those caused by antidepressants.

Unfortunately, Depakote has been on the market for decades, meaning tens of thousands of children may have been at risk if their mother took the medication while pregnant. In fact, many adult children have already filed a Depakote birth defect lawsuit or are considering doing so. Hopefully, with the help of increased attention to these problems, women will be more aware of the pregnancy risks that this drug carries.

However, that will not help families who are already facing Depakote birth defects such as autism, cognitive disorders, heart defects, and more. In that case, getting a free consultation with a Depakote lawsuit attorney may make sense. One is available at the Depakote Class Action Lawsuit Investigation. It costs nothing, but it could help children and their mothers understand what legal options are available and whether not they are eligible to pursue a claim against Abbot Laboratories. Don’t delay in getting the jury award or settlement that your case merits and act today.