Birth Defects and Zofran Litigation in West Virginia
Experienced attorneys getting justice for you
Recent studies have revealed that the nausea drug Zofran, manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline, may increase the risk of birth defects in babies. This drug is often prescribed to pregnant women to combat morning sickness. If you have taken this drug during the first three months of your pregnancy and your baby was born with birth defects, you need to be represented by an attorney with the experience and skill to litigate on your behalf and get you the compensation you deserve. Since 1976, the attorneys at Calwell Luce diTrapano PLLC have handled complex pharmaceutical and medical malpractice cases. Let our dedicated West Virginia attorneys help you get justice.
What is Zofran?
Zofran, and its generic form ondansetron, affects the serotonin levels in the brain. It was originally prescribed to treat nausea in cancer patients or after surgery. However, physicians began to prescribe the drug to help women who suffer from severe morning sickness during pregnancy. Because the drug was not intended for this use, it does not contain safety warnings about birth defects. It was also not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for pregnant women. There are other, safer and FDA-approved options to treat nausea during pregnancy, but Zofran is still popular.
What are the risks of taking Zofran?
Some of the birth defects found in babies whose mothers used the drug during pregnancy include:
- Cleft palates
- Cleft lips
- Club feet
- Heart defects
- Craniosynostosis (skull deformities)
- Jaundice
Despite the possible risks, doctors continue to prescribe Zofran to pregnant women, but it is still the doctor’s responsibility to warn them about the possible side effects. If they do not properly warn their patients, it is considered doctor negligence.
If you or your baby has suffered negative side effects after you have taken Zofran or generic ondansetron, an experienced medical malpractice attorney at our firm can help you file a lawsuit.
Contact a knowledgeable Charleston attorney to learn more about Zofran
If you have taken Zofran during the first three months of your pregnancy, you may be eligible for compensation. For more information and to schedule a consultation, call Calwell Luce diTrapano PLLC at 304-400-6558 or contact us online.
