Zofran is the brand name for ondansetron hydrochloride which was initially created to prevent vomiting and nausea in patients receiving chemo treatments. The drug then went on to be prescribed to pregnant women suffering from morning sickness. Proper studies of the drug were not concluded prior to prescribing the drug to pregnant women.
However, it is known that after 10 weeks of gestation, physical deformities are uncommon to develop. In other words, if the drug is taken between conception to 10 weeks gestation then the embryo/fetus is unfortunately likely to have birth defects.
The birth defects include a rare and often fatal heart defect called Torsades de Pointes. The drug is also accused of causing QT Prolongation which if not treated early on can develop in Torsades de Pointes. Further potential birth defects being linked to the drug are cleft lips, club feet, and craniosynostosis. Each of the defects usually require corrective surgery and further treatment. The studies are currently active to discover direct causation and rule out other potential links that may cause such dangerous deformations and health complications.
The symptoms of QT Prolongation and Torsades de Pointes are pounding heart, dizzy spells, nausea, shortness of breath, trouble sleeping, and dry cough. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please give us a call right away.
Our law firm is investigating claims on behalf of patients who prescribed this drug for their chemo treatments or morning sickness. We are dedicated to your health. Please call us at 888-We-Mean-It (888-936-3264) to speak with one of our knowledgeable staff right away.
