A Virginia Zofran lawsuit may be an option for mothers who took the medication for morning sickness and had a child with birth defects. When women suffer from severe nausea during pregnancy, some turn to medication for relief. One such option, Zofran, has recently been the target of lawsuits, alleging that the drug is linked to birth defects such as heart malformations and cleft palate. Affected mothers may be eligible to file a Virginia Zofran lawsuit if they took the drug during pregnancy and gave birth to a child with birth defects.
For more information, contact Attorney Group for Virginia today. Our consultations are free, confidential and without any obligation on your part. We can help answer your questions, and if you choose to pursue a claim we can connect you with an affiliated Virginia Zofran lawsuit attorney who can assist you throughout the legal process.
What Is Zofran?
As described by MedlinePlus, ondansetron (the main component of Zofran) is categorized as a serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, which works by inhibiting serotonin levels that can contribute to the feeling of nausea. The drug is typically prescribed in dissolvable tablet form and was originally developed to treat nausea post-surgery and for those undergoing chemotherapy. In some cases, ondansetron can be prescribed intravenously.
Due to its anti-nausea properties, Zofran is also being used to treat pregnant women suffering from morning sickness. According to the Mayo Clinic, in its mildest form morning sickness can usually be treated by home remedies, although serious cases may necessitate hospitalization. This condition most often occurs during the first trimester of pregnancy and can affect a large portion of pregnant women.
Potential Link to Birth Defects
The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that there is a significant lack of studies that affirm the safety of this medication for use in pregnant women, while others have shown an increase of severe birth defects like cleft palate occurring. For instance, one study showed that pregnant women who took Zofran during their first trimester were twice as likely to give birth to babies afflicted with cleft palate. Additionally, despite the commonality of prescribing ondansetron for morning sickness, the drug is not actually approved for such use.
Zofran has also been linked to other birth defects in women who take the drug early in their pregnancies. According to the Fertility Centers of New England, congenital heart defects may also occur, and these defects can ultimately be life-threatening depending on the severity of the defect.
Additional Zofran Side Effects
In addition to the risk of potential birth defects, Zofran has also been known to cause other side effects in patients taking the drug. MedicineNet lists the following complications:
- Chest pain/irregular heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Stiffness in muscles
- Constipation
- Headache
- Blurred vision
While less common than the effects listed above, those taking Zofran also run the risk of developing a serious allergic reaction. Allergic reactions can include swelling of the face or throat, rash and difficulty breathing. In the event that serious side effects occur, patients are encouraged to seek emergency medical treatment as soon as possible.
Why a Virginia Zofran Lawsuit May Be Necessary
Some women who have experienced severe complications after taking Zofran have sought legal assistance, alleging that GlaxoSmithKline failed to offer adequate warnings about any potential risks associated with the drug. One woman who was prescribed Zofran allegedly gave birth to a baby that suffered from a defect of the atrial septum, which is the portion of the heart that helps maintain normal blood pressure. The heart can be overly taxed by this defect, which can result in strain on the arteries as well as the heart itself.
Whereas many women have taken Zofran without incident, Virginia Zofran lawsuit attorneys claim the manufacturer did not adequately disclose the risks of the drug to mothers who subsequently delivered children with birth defects.
How a Virginia Zofran Lawsuit Can Help
Drug makers have a duty to provide safe products. If there are risks of harm associated with their products, they also must provide adequate warnings. If a drug maker fails to fulfill this duty, it could be held liable in lawsuits for injuries that may result.
People injured by bad drugs may be eligible to recover money for:
- Medical Expenses
- Lost Wages
- Pain and Suffering
The families of those who have died may be eligible to recover money for funeral expenses and the pain that comes with losing a loved one.
The Time You Have to Pursue a Claim is Limited. Contact Us Today.
For more information, contact Attorney Group for Virginia. You can fill out the form on this page or contact us by phone or email.
After you contact us, an attorney will follow up to answer questions that you might have. There is no cost or obligation to speak with us, and any information you provide will be kept confidential.
Please note that the law limits the time you have to pursue a claim or file a lawsuit for an injury. If you think you have a case, you should not delay taking action.
