According to information from a new, long-term study, cleft palate and cleft lip is caused by the use of Topamax, an epilepsy drug that is also used to treat migraines. This new study, which is based on more than a decade of information, confirms previous research that already found the link between cleft palate and cleft lip.

This new research was published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology on July 16, and has confirmed that Topamax use during the first trimester of pregnancy increases the chances of the child being born with the serious defect. Earlier this month, the FDA approved the weight loss drug Qsymia, which is created with Topamirate (Topamax) despite the birth defect risks. However, in making the approval, the makers of Qsymia added a warning that the drug should not be used by pregnant women in a direct nod to the real risks of Topamax birth defects.

Some of the other birth defects that are linked to Topamax include PPHN, spina bifida, neural tube defects and heart, lung and brain defects. This has caused many doctors to stop prescribing Topamax to pregnant women as both an epilepsy and migraine treatment, although some doctors continue to prescribe Topamax to pregnant women anyway. This newest study will help to add more proof for the thousands of Topamax plaintiffs who have sued the makers of the drug for failure to warn the public and healthcare professionals of the risks involved in taking the drug while pregnant. This new study may help plaintiffs to receive judgments in their favor.

If your baby was born with a cleft palate or any other birth defects mentioned above after being exposed to Topamax during gestation, contact Greg Jones today for a free consultation. I am experienced at fighting Topamax lawsuits and may be able to help you recover money for your baby’s injuries.