FDA warns of lower cognitive functioning with Valproate

The FDA has reported that the children of mothers who took the drug Valproate during pregnancy appear to have lower levels of cognitive functioning than other children.

Valproate drugs include the following: divalproex sodium (Depakote, Depakote ER, Depakote CP), valproate sodium (Depacon), valproic acid (Stavzor, Depakene), and the generic versions of these drugs.

Valproate is prescribed to treat seizures, bipolar disorder, and manic episodes. It is also given for migraine prevention and occasionally for other off-label psychiatric purposes. Valproate has been approved by the FDA.

Medical studies observed children whose mothers took Valproate during pregnancy and compared them with children whose mothers took other seizure medications. The children who were exposed to Valproate in utero scored lower on IQ tests and other cognitive tests than the other children.

Did you or a loved one take Valproate while pregnant and have a child with cognitive problems? Submit your information to see if you are eligible to seek compensation against the makers of Valproate for these defects.