About six million women in the United States will become pregnant every year. Most pregnant women take an average of three to five prescriptions while pregnant, while those with pre-existing conditions or pregnancy complications are likely taking even more
One such prescription approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treating asthma related symptoms is Terbutaline. This drug helps to stop asthma attacks by relaxing muscles, and it is approved by the FDA solely for this use. However, many obstetricians have used Terbutaline to prevent premature labor or to control contractions during the final stage of pregnancy.
The risks involved in the off-label use of Terbutaline by pregnant women have been shown since 1997. Research has proved that Terbutaline can cause serious birth defects, an increased risk of brain damage, and even autism. The autism risks from Terbutaline are even greater with fraternal twins.
Terbutaline also carries risks for the mother. A medical journal that lists Terbutaline as an effective treatment for pre-term labor notes that women treated with Terbutaline should be monitored for tachycardia, or rapid beating of the heart, which can become life-threatening.
Due to the well documented risks of Terbutaline use during pregnancy, a doctor can be held liable by a defective drug attorney if the prescription results in serious adverse effects, such as fraternal twins with autism.
Off-label use of prescription medication by physicians has been linked to serious adverse side effects. The off-label use of Botox is another documented case. Doctors have attempted to use Botox to treat cerebral palsy. This has resulted in serious adverse reactions, including death.
Negligent physicians may be held responsible for serious illnesses associated with medication if they were aware of the risks before administering the drug. In addition, the drug manufacturer may also be held liable for manufacturing a dangerous product.
Terbutaline attorneys are working to help fraternal twins suffering from autism due to medical negligence.
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