Topamax Linked to Cleft Palate Birth Defects

Recently the FDA issued a warning to healthcare providers that the popular migraine and epilepsy medication Topamax (topiramate) should not be prescribed to women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant due to a very high risk of offspring developing cleft lip and cleft palate defects.

The Topamax birth defect attorneys at Reich & Binstock are currently offering free consultations to women who took Topamax during pregnancy and have had a child with a cleft lip or cleft palate. To speak with a Topamax lawyer please fill out the form on this page or contact us toll free at 1-866-LAW(529)-2400.

What is Topamax?

Topamax was originally marketed as an anticonvulsant, to aid in the treatment of epilepsy in children and adults. Topamax is also approved by the FDA for the migraine prevention and is now most commonly prescribed for the prevention of migraines.

Topamax has also been used to treat bipolar disorder by many psychiatrists, and is also commonly used to augment psychotropics or counteract weight gain caused by some antidepressant medications.

Topamax Cleft Palate Birth Defects

Cleft lip and palate are birth defects that occur during the first trimester when parts of the lip or palate do not properly fuse. These types of defects, collectively known as oral defects, can range drastically in severity. In some cases the defect may be a small notch in the lip, while in other more severe cases it a groove may run from the nose into the roof of the mouth. These more severe oral defects can cause problems when eating, drinking, and speaking. In many cases surgery is required to close the lip and palate.

The use of Topamax during the first trimester of pregnancy has been shown to substantially increase the risk of oral defects. Due to the fact that many are unaware that they are pregnant for at least a portion of the first trimester, it is extremely important for women of child bearing age to exercise great caution while taking Topamax.

Contact a Topamax Birth Defect Attorney

The Topamax birth defect attorneys at Reich & Binstock are currently offering free consultations to women who have taken Topamax during pregnancy and have given birth to a child with a cleft lip or cleft palate. If you or a loved one’s child has been born with an oral defect that may have been caused by Topamax we can help. To speak with a drug injury attorney about a potential Topamax birth defect lawsuit please fill out the form on this page or contact us toll free at 1-866-LAW(529)-2400 for immediate assistance.