Topamax causes an increase in suicidal tendencies of users… and might also have serious adverse effects on unborn babies. Studies have shown that babies born to mothers taking Topamax are 20 times more likely to be born with birth defects—specifically a cleft lip or palate.
Anyone taking Topamax—for its intended uses or otherwise—should be aware of the risks. And any woman who became pregnant while taking Topamax should speak to a doctor immediately, to assess the risks to an unborn child or to discuss treatment for a child born with a defect.
Because of the inadequate research into topiramate, parents of children who were injured before birth are now bringing lawsuits seeking to be compensated for the harms suffered.
Touted as a seizure- and migraine-preventing drug, Topamax has an uglier side. Its manufacturer has pled guilty to criminal charges for promoting the drug for off-label purposes, and the FDA has released two startling warnings.
Like many other drugs, Topamax reaches far more consumers than its initial intended audience. Although only approved to treat seizures and migraines, Topamax is also prescribed for a wide range of other, seemingly unrelated conditions.
Topamax presents a variety of risks and side effects occurring at fairly high frequencies. Although almost every drug has some side effects, it’s important to be aware of exactly what those side effects are, and the frequency at which they occur.
Studies have revealed an increase in the occurrence of cleft palates in children born to mothers who take Topamax during pregnancy by about 20 times. Because facial development beings early on in the pregnancy, many women may not even realize they’re pregnant before the Topamax causes cleft palate.
Studies linking Topamax to serious and disfiguring birth defects have prompted the FDA to take action. Topamax, and its generic topiramate, will be required to carry new warnings. The drug has also been downgraded to Pregnancy Category D, the FDA’s second worst category.
Although no lawsuits have been filed yet, Ortho-McNeil is exposed to legal liability by evidence linking Topamax to significant risks of cleft palate. A lawsuit, while not an ideal solution, might be the only way for some to receive compensation for the costly surgery required to correct the birth defect.
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“The Rottenstein Law Group, which is now evaluating potential claims of those who have suffered injury as a result of taking the anticonvulsant drug Topamax, is recommending that any patient prescribed Topamax to aid with weight loss discuss the severe side effects of the drug with one’s doctor in light of the conclusion of a recent study that Topamax might be useful as a weight-loss drug.”
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