One rare, but possible birth defect is called anencephaly, a condition in which the baby is born without certain parts of the skull and brain. Anencephaly is a neural tube defect that occurs when the upper portion of the tube is malformed or unable to close completely. As a result, the baby is born with a portion of his or her brain exposed. Sadly, the child typically does not survive.
If your baby suffered anencephaly, call (713) 909-7910 for a free consultation.
What Are the Causes?
While the exact cause of anencephaly is not known, studies suggests that certain types of medications may play a role in the development of the condition. While your doctor may have your best interest in mind, there is the possibility that he or she may have prescribed a medication that was dangerous to take while pregnant, but the risks are not always known. As a mother, it’s important to understand that this is not your fault. Research has shown that various selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may increase the risk of birth defects such as anencephaly.
Common SSRIs linked to anencephaly when taken while pregnant include:
- Zoloft
- Prozac
How Common is Anencephaly?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that out of 10,000 births in the United States each year, three will result in anencephaly. This means approximately 1,206 babies will develop the condition annually. This data is particularly unsettling, considering the fact that it may be preventable.
Speak with a Birth Defect Attorney Today
Anencephaly can turn one of the happiest times in your life completely upside down. If you were taking an SSRI or antidepressant while pregnant and your child developed anencephaly, you may have cause to file a claim. Keep in mind that it is important to act quickly in order to make an accurate determination of cause (i.e. whether anencephaly can be linked to the use of a medication).
To say this type of situation is difficult would be a massive understatement. Losing a child to a potentially preventable birth defect, such as anencephaly, is devastating. While it pains us that we cannot undo past wrongs, we do find hope in being able to fight for justice on behalf of victims. If your child was born with anencephaly, you may be able to pursue legal action.
Call (713) 909-7910Â today to learn about your options.
