Defective Drugs and Birth Defects
When a woman is pregnant, she has to be very careful about the substances that she puts in her body, as they can have a direct impact on the development of her baby. Certain substances increase the risk of birth defects and other problems.
One common cause of birth defects is drug reactions to prescription and over-the-counter medication. Defective drugs can cause birth defects that impact a baby’s mental and physical abilities, and put them at risk for other complications. Defective drug lawyers at Reed & Terry, L.L.P. can help birth defect victims from the Sugar Land, TX area hold liable parties accountable for damages stemming from defective drugs used during pregnancy.
Drugs That Can Cause Birth Defects
Drugs that have the potential to cause birth defects are known as teratogens. Teratogens include drugs and substances such as alcohol and cocaine, but they also include numerous prescription medications and over-the-counter medications. Some of the medications that increase the risk of birth defects include:
- Certain antibiotics
- Acne medications
- ACE inhibitors
- Antidepressants and SSRIs
- Anti-inflammatories and NSAIDs
- Blood thinners
- Cholesterol lowering drugs
- Hormone drugs
- Seizure medication
- Certain cancer-fighting medications
Birth Defects Related to Defective Drugs
Defective drugs or those that have the potential to cause birth defects may cause a number of adverse effects for a growing fetus. The type of defect that develops, and the severity of the defect depends on a number of factors, such as which medication was used, the dose of the medication, the frequency with which the medication was used, and the stage of fetal development when the medication was used. Birth defects that have been linked to defective drugs include:
- Physical deformities
- Heart defects
- Limb defects
- Neural tube defects
- Spina bifida
- Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn (PPHN)
- Mental disabilities
- Developmental delays
In the most severe situations, birth defects caused by defective drugs can result in death.
Holding Liable Parties Accountable
If a defective drug causes birth defects, liable parties should be held accountable for resulting damages, including past and future medical expenses, the cost of rehabilitation or therapy, pain and suffering, and lost wages.
In most cases, drug manufacturers are liable for defective drugs that cause birth defects. Drug manufacturers are responsible for thoroughly testing drugs to gauge their safety. They should anticipate possible side effects or complications and adequately warn consumers. If a defective drug makes its way to the market, that is neglect on the part of the drug manufacturer, which means they should be responsible for any resulting damages. Our Katy-area attorneys can help clients prove liability so that they can be adequately compensated for their losses.
Birth defects caused by drugs are also sometimes the result of medical malpractice. If a medication is known to increase the risk of birth defects and a doctor prescribes it to a pregnant mother, they should be held liable.
Schedule a Free Case Review
If your child suffered birth defects that you believe were caused by defective drugs, the lawyers at Reed & Terry, L.L.P. in Richmond can help you collect damages for your losses. To find out how much compensation you may be due, call (281) 201-0988 or send us a message to schedule a free case review.