Depakote Birth Defects

Information on Possible Birth Defects from Depakote
The epilepsy drug Depakote has been approved for use for treating epilepsy and the manic phase of bipolar disorder since the early 1980's. The active ingredients in Depakote, valproate sodium or valproic acid, have been in use in the United States, since the 1960's. In the UK a similar drug with the same active ingredients, Epilim, is used for similar purposes - treating seizure conditions and migraine headaches.

Recent studies have found a possible correlation between taking the drug Depakote during pregnancy and the prevalence of a specific set of birth defects. Possible birth defects from Depakote include cleft palate, neural tube malformation, hydranencephaly, iniencephaly, hypoplasia of the midface, hypoplasia of the hands, hypoplasia of the nails, cardiovasular malformations, craniofacial malformations, growth retardation, mental retardation and fetal death.

Spina Bifida From Depakote
One of the most serious of these potential birth defects is the neural tube malformation known as spina bifida. Spina bifida from Depakote is a severe condition which results in a lifetime of disabilities and challenges. The March of Dimes estimates that the medical cost for treating spina bifida in a child is approximately $300,000.00.

Spina bifida occurs during the early stages of fetal development when the neural tube which encloses the spinal cord fails to form properly. This causes a buildup of fluid resulting in a large bump on the spine putting pressure on the spinal cord which may cause partial or total paralysis. Other difficulties from spina bifida include the inability to control bladder or sexual functions, learning disabilities and a lack of basic motor skills.

Depakote Lawsuits for Injuries and Spina Bifida
Due to the fact that mounting medical costs to treat spina bifida or any other birth defect from Depakote may put significant, if not insurmountable, strain on a family, many are turning to the advice of Depakote attorneys to determine the possibility for a Depakote lawsuit.