Issues with Wellbutrin & Birth Defects
Known generically as bupropion, Wellbutrin is a serotonin and norepinephrine re-uptake inhibitor (SNRI) anti-depressant manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. Wellbutrin was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1985 to treat patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder or seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Wellbutrin has been categorized as Pregnancy Category C drug by the FDA. This categorization signifies that there is a significant risk of children developing birth defects when drugs like Wellbutrin are used by pregnant women.
The American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology published a research article in July 2010 about the link between Wellbutrin and birth defects. The data collected in this study revealed that the risk of birth defects, specifically heart defects, in children exposed to Wellbutrin in the womb doubled when compared to those who were not exposed to the SNRI anti-depressant.
Wellbutrin & Birth Defects
Though Wellbutrin use during pregnancy has been linked to a number of birth defects, including persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN), one of the most commonly reported birth defects relating to Wellbutrin exposure are those involving heart deformities. Children exposed to Wellbutrin have been born with a heart deformity known as a left outflow heart defect. A left outflow heart defect is a condition in which the child’s abnormally narrow aorta results in inadequate blood flow, that in turn is the cause of further health complications.
Carey Danis & Lowe is Here to Help
Carey Danis & Lowe is a national law firm based in St. Louis that represents victims of defective drugs, including Wellbutrin. If your child was born with congenital birth defects, including a left outflow heart defect, after being exposed to Wellbutrin in the womb, Carey Danis & Lowe is available to assist you and your family in seeking legal recourse.
Discuss your case and legal options with a Carey Danis & Lowe Wellbutrin birth defects lawyer. Our initial consultations are free.
Carey Danis & Lowe Wellbutrin lawyers are highly experienced in handling personal injury claims and pharmaceutical litigation involving defective drugs. We work closely alongside our team of medical experts and on-staff nurses, as well as our clients, in developing strong court cases.
For more information about Wellbutrin and birth defects, and for assistance with filing a Wellbutrin birth defects lawsuit, contact Carey Danis & Lowe by phone at 800.721.2519, or by completing a confidential personal injury claim.
Read the Carey Danis & Lowe personal injury litigation blog to stay up-to-date on Wellbutrin birth defects lawsuits.