GlaxoSmithKline is the maker of the popular anti-nausea drug, Zofran and are currently the cause of many lawsuits. In addition, many pregnant patients who took the drug while in the first trimester are claiming Zofran caused severe birth defects in their children. Likewise, Zofran use while pregnant can cause the following birth defects in unborn fetuses:
• Congenital heart defects
• Cleft lip
• Cleft palate
Zofran is typically prescribed to individuals who are undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or have recently had anesthesia during surgery. The FDA does not approve Zofran as safe for use during pregnancy, yet some women are being prescribed the drug to treat morning sickness. GSK did not conduct clinical trials to test the safety during pregnancy, yet it was found prior that it reached beyond the placental barrier in animal testing. Additionally, during animal testing it was found that the high toxicity of Zofran during pregnancy also caused premature births, intrauterine fetal deaths, and impairment of ossification or incomplete bone growth. GSK argue that animal studies never assume what the outcome will be in humans.
Now, families of babies who have suffered birth defects are suing the pharmaceutical giants for negligence. Pregnant women who were exposed to Zofran have an increased risk for the following according to researchers:
• 41% increased chance of having a baby with ventricular septal defect
• 22% increased chance to have a baby with cardiac septal defect
• Four times greater chance to have a baby with atrioventricular septal defect
All of the above are the most common types of congenital heart defects, and thus can be caused by Zofran use during pregnancy.
The experienced St. Louis personal injury attorneys at Meyerkord & Kurth are currently representing Zofran cases. If you or your child were injured and suffered a birth defect because of Zofran, please contact us today.