Bupropion hydrochloride, sold under the brand names Wellbutrin and Zyban, is potentially a defective drug as it may be linked to severe birth defects. Potential birth defects associated with the medications include cardiac malformations, neural tube defects, craniosynostosis and clubfoot.
Wellbutrin is used to treat Major Depressive Disorder and Seasonal Affective Disorder. It works by restoring a person’s chemical imbalance by creating more dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine.
Zyban is prescribed as a smoking cessation drug. It works by decreasing a person’s nicotine cravings and the symptoms associated with nicotine withdrawal.
The two drugs, although prescribed as different treatments, contain the same active ingredient. Bupropion hydrochloride may increase the risk of severe heart-related birth defects in unborn babies.
If your child was born with a birth defect and you took Wellbutrin to treat depression or Zyban to help you quit smoking during your pregnancy, you may qualify to seek compensation. To schedule an evaluation of your case, contact the personal injury lawyers of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz. We can be reached at (888) 255-AWKO (2956).