Study finds Epilepsy Drug Harmful to Pregnant Women

In a recent study, detailed here in the LA Times, doctors in the UK found that women taking Topiramate, sold in the US by Johnson and Johnson under the name, Topomax, can lead to serious birth defects if the users are pregnant when taking the drug. Topiimate is a common drug used to control seizures and often given to those who suffer from migraines. Of the 203 women tested, it was found that chances for a birth defect was increased by 14-fold.

Of the 203 pregnancies in the test, there were two still births, five induced abortions, and 18 pregnancies that ended in spontaneous abortions. Of the 178 babies born, there were also 16 infants who suffered from major birth defects.

Doctors current suggestions for users was to stop taking the drug if the use is for treating migraines, but continue to use the drug if epilepsy is the reason for use, as seizures be harmful to the fetus.