Birth Defects Linked to Prenatal Use of Pain Killers

A new study links the prenatal use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to a small-to-moderate increased risk of several different birth defects.

Researchers from the Center for Birth Defects Research and Prevention at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health examined information of more than 4,500 women who took NSAIDs and looked for 29 different groups of birth defects among their infants. The study, which was published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, found that increased risks of various birth defects varied based on the type of NSAID the woman had taken.

The pain medications that were most problematic included aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. The research linked these medications to an increased birth defect risk of oral clefts, microphthalmia, neural tube defects, amniotic band syndrome, anophthalmia, pulmonary valve stenosis, limb body wall defects, and transverse limb deficiencies.

Authors of the study suggested that more studies with detailed information on frequency, dose, timing, and indications were necessary.

If your child was born with a birth defect due to a dangerous drug, contact Sokolove Law for a free legal consultation and to find out if a dangerous drug lawyer may be able to help you.

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