Can I Sue If Prescription Drugs Cause Birth Injuries?

 Posted on October 15, 2024 in Birth Injury

Pregnant women can get sick like anyone else, and they might need medication for other health problems. Many prescription and over-the-counter drugs are safe, but some can lead to birth defects, developmental issues, or even miscarriages. Doctors should know about these risks and choose safer alternatives, but sometimes they do not. Pharmacists who know you are pregnant should advise you of potential risks before filling your prescription.

If you were prescribed medication while pregnant and had a miscarriage or your baby suffered birth injuries, you might be able to get compensation through a medical malpractice claim. A skilled Chicago, IL lawyer from Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd. can help explain your options during a free consultation.

What are Teratogenic Medications?

Teratogenic medications can cause birth defects if a baby is exposed to them while in the womb. The stage of pregnancy when the drug is taken can affect how severe the birth injuries are. Some drugs that may be harmful include:

• Antiepileptic drugs like phenobarbital, lamotrigine, valproate, and carbamazepine can cause birth defects and cognitive problems.
• Antimicrobial drugs like tetracyclines, chloramphenicol, fluoroquinolones, and sulfamethoxazole can cause bone growth problems, limb issues, heart defects, and deafness.
• Excessive doses of Vitamin A can cause neural tube defects, spina bifida, cleft palate, and other problems.
• Anticoagulants, antithyroid drugs, hormones, and others can lead to serious birth injuries. 
• Antibiotics, NSAIDs, and other drugs can increase the risk of miscarriage.

Doctors should prescribe medications with low-risk factors during pregnancy and explain any possible dangers. When they fail to do this, you might be able to file a medical malpractice claim.

Can You Get Compensation If Birth Injuries Were Caused by Prescription Drugs?

Healthcare providers have a duty to provide the best care when they accept you as a patient. To get compensation, you must show that the provider’s actions directly caused the birth injury and damages.

Damages may include costs for medical care, lost income, pain and suffering, depression, and other ways the injury impacted your life. The best way to find out if you are eligible is to contact Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd. to discuss your situation.

Who Is Responsible When Prescription Drugs Cause Birth Injuries?

Different parties could be held responsible for birth injuries caused by prescription drugs, such as:

• The doctor who prescribed the medication
• Clinics, hospitals, or medical practices
• Drug manufacturers
• Pharmacies and pharmacists

Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd. will investigate your case, identify who is responsible, and work to get you the compensation you deserve.

Call Our Knowledgeable Cook County, IL Birth Injury Lawyers

When healthcare providers fail to give proper care, the result can be lifelong disabilities, miscarriages, or even death. Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd. can help you hold them accountable. Call 312-462-4200 for a free consultation with our dedicated Chicago, IL medical malpractice lawyers.