Effexor and Birth Injuries

Cautious of This Drug

Expectant mothers should exercise caution when taking Effexor. Several clinical studies have found it is dangerous for pregnant women. In fact, those who use the drug have double the risk of having a spontaneous abortion. You should only take Effexor if it will unquestionably help your well-being and that the benefits outweigh the risks. However, you should absolutely speak with your doctor before you take it. Any drug that you use should have the pre-approval of your doctor to ensure your child’s safety. You do this by making sure that you don’t take any medication that could harm them.

There are a variety of dangerous birth defects that can arise as a result of taking Effexor. For example, the baby could have a cleft palate, Anencephaly, heart defects, Omphalocele, respiratory problems, or Craniosynostosis.

What Happens if the Drug Causes Birth Defects?

If Effexor causes a birth disorder, the party held responsible will depend on the circumstances. For example, let’s say that the doctor prescribed this drug, but they gave you no advice or warning about the potential for birth defects. In that situation, you could hold the doctor liable for the birth defects that happened to your child. If this occurs, it is important to work with a legal professional to help you get the compensation you deserve. Keep in mind that most doctors will not prescribe this drug because of how the FDA classifies it: Effexor is a class C drug.

In 2009, Pfizer bought this medication from Wyeth, the company that developed it. There have since been several lawsuits filed against them due to birth defects in children. The lawsuits were filed because the company gave no warning to health professionals or the general public about these risks.

Dangers to the Mothers

Along with dangers to the child,  Effexor also presents risks to the mother. There is a wide-ranging spectrum of side effects. Some of the most common include nausea, headaches, panic attacks, mania, weight loss, night sweats, apathy, serotonin syndrome, and suicidal thoughts.

A birth injury can turn into a serious matter. Issues like cerebral palsy can leave you in need of help due to the financial burden. Birth injuries can very quickly cost families more than what they can afford. In the case of cerebral palsy, a family can pay over $1 million in medical costs to the hospital for their child. To get the compensation you deserve, discuss your case with a legal professional. Having a child should come as a time of great celebration. You don’t want to worry about them having a birth defect. But unfortunately, these risks exist, and you have to take as many precautionary measures as possible to prevent them.