Zofran birth defects have been brought to light after multiple women filed Zofran lawsuits against manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).
Four Potentially Serious Zofran Birth Defects
Here are four serious birth defects that might occur with Zofran use during pregnancy:
1. Heart Damage/Defects
According to the Mayo Clinic, congenital heart defects and damage happen in utero. These defects occur in the heart’s chambers, valves or blood vessels. Children with congenital heart defects can have one or several conditions diagnosed at birth.
In December 2014, a Swedish Reproductive Toxicology study on Zofran use during pregnancy examined congenital issues in infants. The study revealed a heightened risk for cardiovascular malformations and defects. The study’s researchers concluded that women shouldn’t take Zofran while pregnant.
2. Kidney Defects
In December 2013, BioMed Research International conducted a study about Zofran use during pregnancy. The study concluded that Zofran increased risk of children being born with kidney defects. The defects were classified as “obstructed defects of renal pelvis and ureter,” indicating a wide range of kidney and urinary tract problems. More serious kidney-related birth defects included impaired renal development and abnormalities that obstruct normal urine outflow.
3. Cleft Lip or Palate
The CDC defines cleft palate/lip as a birth defect that occurs when a child’s mouth doesn’t fully develop while in utero. Problems often associated with it include trouble talking, feeding and increased risk for ear infections. Fortunately, surgery performed within the first 12 months of life can help repair this defect.
According to Canadian Family Physician, data from the Slone Epidemiology Center and the CDC found a twofold increase in cleft palate births when mothers took Zofran (generic name: ondansetron).
4. Club Foot
The use of Zofran during pregnancy is also linked to congenital club foot development. According to the Cleveland Clinic, symptoms of congenital club foot include twisted ankles, differences in calf appearance, and the forefoot bending downward.
Additional Zofran Birth Defects
As more research is conducted on taking Zofran during pregnancy, birth defect reports may also rise. If you took Zofran for pregnancy-related nausea or morning sickness and your child was born with a birth defects, you may have a claim. First, reach out to an attorney about filing your Zofran lawsuit. An attorney can quickly review your claim and then help you get the justice you deserve.
What You Can Do
If you took Zofran while pregnant and your child was subsequently born with a birth defect, speak to a Zofran attorney now! You may be entitled to financial compensation.