Craniosynostosis Lawsuit | Get the Right Lawyer

Craniosynostosis is a severe birth defect that has been linked to the use of certain prescription medications during pregnancy.

Free Confidential Lawsuit Evaluation: If your child or other loved one was born with craniosynostosis, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit and our lawyers can help.

Study Links Depression Medications to Craniosynostosis, Heart Defects & Gastrointestinal Malformations

January 6, 2016 – A new study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Boston University’s Slone Epidemiology Center has confirmed a link between two popular antidepressant drugs and major birth defects. Published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ), the study found an increased risk for anencephaly, several heart defects and 2 gastrointestinal malformations in women who took Paxil during pregnancy.

What is Craniosynostosis?

A newborn’s skull is composed of a number of free-floating bones connected with fibrous regions (sutures) which allow the infant’s head to pass through the birth canal and enable the skull to grow in response to the brain. Craniosynostosis occurs when the sutures close prematurely, which restricts and distorts the growth of the skull. This leads to increased cranial pressure, which can cause vision problems and hinder intellectual growth. Sadly, abnormal head shape has also been associated with low self-esteem and behavioral problems.

Depakote and Craniosynostosis

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) [1] in June 2010 found that woman who took the anti-seizure medication Depakote (divalproex sodium and valproic acid) during the first trimester of pregnancy were nearly 7x more likely to have babies with craniosynostosis. Other defects linked to Depakote in the study included spina bifida and cleft palate.

Pregnant women should not take antidepressants

Unfortunately, the use of certain antidepressants has been linked to an increased risk of craniosynostosis when taken during the first three months of pregnancy. According to multiple studies, women who take these medications during this time are almost twice as likely to deliver a baby with craniosynostosis.

Which antidepressants may pose a risk?

The following antidepressants have been associated with the development of craniosynostosis in children born to mothers who took them during pregnancy:

• Paxil
• Zoloft
• Celexa
• Prozac (Fluoxetine)
• Lexapro (Escitalopram)
• Symbyax (fluoxetine and olanzapine)
• Wellbutrin (Bupropion)
• Effexor

Related Birth Defects Articles:

• Cerebral Palsy Lawsuit
• Erb’s Palsy Lawsuit
• Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) Litigation
• Truncus Arteriosus (TA) Lawsuit

Complications of Craniosynostosis

Newborns with craniosynostosis may develop increased intracranial pressure because their skulls don’t expand enough to make room for their growing brain. If untreated, craniosynostosis can cause blindness, seizures, brain damage, facial deformities, upper airway obstructions, permanent head deformity, and even death.

FAQs

1. What Legal Options Are Available for Families Affected by Craniosynostosis?

Families affected by craniosynostosis may pursue legal action through medical malpractice or product liability claims, seeking compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.

2. How Can a Lawyer Help With a Craniosynostosis Lawsuit?

A lawyer can assist by gathering medical records, consulting experts, building a strong case, negotiating settlements, and representing families in court to seek compensation for damages related to craniosynostosis.

3. What Evidence Is Needed to File a Lawsuit for Craniosynostosis?

Evidence required includes medical records, diagnostic tests, expert testimonies, proof of negligence or malpractice, and documentation of damages and ongoing care needs related to craniosynostosis.

Do I have a Craniosynostosis Lawsuit?

The Pharmaceutical Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in craniosynostosis lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.

Free Confidential Lawsuit Evaluation: If your child or other loved one was born with craniosynostosis, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit and our lawyers can help.