Topamax Side Effects Lawsuits | Phillips Law Group

Topamax is a popular oral anti-convulsant medication used to treat epileptic seizures and to prevent chronic migraine headaches. Approved in 1996, Topamax and other medications containing the active ingredient Topiramate were originally intended to treat seizures only. In 2004, however, the FDA approved the use of Topamax to prevent migraines as well. Topamax is not intended to alleviate headache symptoms. It is only approved to be used as a preventative measure for individuals who suffer from chronic migraines. In addition to its two approved uses, Topamax has also been used off-label to treat:

• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
• Bipolar Disorder
• Certain eating disorders

Topiramate works by decreasing the irregular excitement in the brain that causes seizure-related episodes.

Topamax Birth Defects

Recent studies have shown that expectant mothers who have taken the drug Topamax were over 20 times more likely to have children with deformities of the palate and lip. Other birth defects that are linked to Topamax use during pregnancy include:

• Limb malformations
• Neural tube defects
• Lung and heart defects
• Spina bifida
• Hypospadias
• Craniofacial defects

In light of these findings, Topamax has been placed in Pregnancy Category D, meaning that there is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on human data.

In March 2011, the FDA released a statement to the public stating that Topamax can contribute to birth defects such as cleft palate and cleft lip in children whose mothers were administered the drug during the first trimester. Many women took Topamax without being sufficiently warned of the risks involved.

Topamax Birth Defect Lawsuit

At Phillips Law Group, we believe that when a pharmaceutical company fails to adequately warn the public of the risks associated with the use of their products, they should be held accountable for any injuries that result. If you or a loved one has given birth to a child with birth defects after using Topamax during the pregnancy, do not hesitate to contact one of our Topamax attorneys. Failing to file a claim within a certain time period can prevent you from every taking legal action to seek compensation for your childs Topamax birth defect, regardless of the severity of the injury. For more information on the legal rights which may be available to women who took Topamax during pregnancy or to schedule a free, no obligation consultation with one of our Topamax birth injury attorneys, complete our online free case evaluation form for immediate assistance.