In normal fetal development, we normally start out life with a cleft lip and palate. Between the 6th week until the 11th week of pregnancy, the clefts of the lip and the palate fuse together. A “cleft” means not joined together while the “palate” is the roof of the mouth. Cleft lip is the abnormality to which the upper lips are not fused. We commonly call this anomaly as harelip. Cleft palate on the other hand is an opening of the palate. Cleft palate is where the palate is open. Both birth defects are also known as craniofacial anomalies. These abnormalities can cause severe complications such as hearing loss, recurrent ear infections, lip deformities and difficulties in speech.
Clefts, What Causes It?
There are no known specific causes of clefts but some research have shown that factors like genetics, genetic syndromes and the pregnant woman’s environment- poor health, being exposed to toxins, teratogens and some medications- may lead to the developments of these defects. A study has shown that a drug used to prevent seizure and migraine, Topamax, has contributed to the development of birth defects like cleft lip and palate.
Topamax And Its Effects On Pregnant Women.
Last 2008, a scientific study that was published in Neurology indicates that women who are taking Topamax at the time of pregnancy increases the risk of developing the birth defects, cleft lip and palate. As per the article, “Topiramate in Pregnancy: Preliminary Experience from the UK Epilepsy and Pregnancy Register,” of the 178 babies born, 16 had major birth defects. Four of the babies had oral clefts – 11 times more prevalent than the normal rate. More and more cases around the world are being reported which led the FDA to issue serious warnings on Topamax. The FDA gave a Pregnancy Category D to this medication, just one level above Pregnancy Category X which is prohibited for pregnant women. A pregnant woman, especially with special needs, has to be very careful when taking medications. She must always consult her doctor.
Epilepsy drug, Topamax, receives scrutiny after studies show it causes serious side effects among pregnant women and their newborns. Read more updates and news here.
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Topamax Use During Pregnancy Can Be Related To Craniofacial Anomalies
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