Zofran, is a prescription medication that can be prescribed for nausea and vomiting; pregnant women experiencing severe symptoms are often prescribed the medication during the first trimester. Zofran is known effectiveness in treating nausea and vomiting, however in recent studies consuming the drug has shown serious side effects to both mother and infant.
Zofran works by blocking chemicals in the body responsible for nausea and vomiting. It can be taken orally, via a rapidly disintegrating tablet (ODT), or through injections. Pregnant women experiencing nausea and/or vomiting, however, are usually given the oral tablet, which typically starts around 8 mg per tablet, taken once or twice per day.
Although no one knows yet exactly why pregnant women get nausea and/or vomiting, research suggests that more 50% of all pregnant will experience nausea during pregnancy. In instances in which nausea is severe and home remedies, such as consuming crackers and toast fail to work, women may be prescribed Zofran or similar medications.
Even worse, since morning sickness is most often associated with the first trimester of pregnancy, women prescribed Zofran are taking it during an infant’s most crucial development period.
It’s important to note that despite its potential risks, the FDA has not stopped Zofran from being prescribed.
Recently, a myriad of women have came forward after experiencing adverse effects from Zofran. In fact, along with the risks of birth defects in their infants, other side effects that directly affect the mother include:
- Rashes, hives, and itching
- Cleft palate (a split in the roof of the mouth)
- Cleft lip
- Body swelling
- Constipation
- Atrial Septal Defect (hole in the heart)
- Ventricular Septal Defect
- Heart Murmurs
The most common types of birth defects that can potentially come from Zofran include:
- Musculoskeletal anomalies
- Mouth deformities
- Jaundice
- Heart defects
Although some pregnant women have found that Zofran eases their nausea and vomiting significantly, others have filed birth injury lawsuits against its maker, GlaxoSmithKline.
If you or someone you know has experienced harm from the Zofran drug , contact Houssiere, Durant & Houssiere, LLP at 888-881-8100 or fill out the “Contact Us” form on our home page, no obligation consultation to learn your rights. You may be eligible for compensation, though there may be a time limit to file a claim.
