Does Using Zofran Cause Birth Defects?

One study indicates that morning sickness afflicts nearly 80% of pregnant women in the United States. Debilitating nausea and frequent vomiting has left many women desperate for relief, something most doctors are more than happy to provide. Zofran is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for morning sickness, but the alleviation it offers may be colored by something quite alarming.

Researchers in Denmark, Canada, and the US have observed thousands of pregnant women taking Zofran and the results aren’t very encouraging. The drug has been linked to heart problems, birth defects, and other health complications. If your baby was born with any of these conditions, the following information may be beneficial to you.

What Are The Risks of Taking Zofran While Pregnant?

If the risks are so serious, you may be wondering why any doctor would prescribe the medication to expectant mothers. The answer lies in Zofran’s manufacturer, GlaxoSmithKline. Doctors were encouraged by the manufacturer to use the drug through “off label marketing” which is actually illegal. As a result, women and their children may be suffering the consequences.

Fetuses exposed to Zofran may be at risk for the following when born:

• Kidney malformations
• Cleft palate
• Jaundice
• Musculoskeletal anomalies
• Arrhythmia
• Heart defects

Because morning sickness most commonly occurs in the first trimester, the risks associated with Zofran are even more serious. Fetuses are most liable for developing birth defects in those first three months due to prescribed drugs.

An increasing number of claims are growing against Zofran, so the time to take action is right now. Our firm can evaluate your case to determine if your circumstances are worthy of filing a claim. We encourage you to get in touch with Whitley Law Firm if your child was born with any of the above birth defects and you took Zofran at any point during your pregnancy.

We don’t want to see any deserving family go uncompensated. Our Raleigh dangerous drug lawyers are dedicated to the outcome of your case and will work tirelessly on your behalf. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.