Arizona Zofran Side Effects

Zofran, also known as Ondansetron, is a medication that is prescribed to treat nausea and vomiting in chemotherapy patients. However, the drug has also been prescribed off-label to pregnant mothers suffering from morning sickness. The drug is known as an antiemetic and works as a selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonist. It works by blocking the serotonin receptor in the brain, which increases gastric emptying, quells feelings of nausea, and decreases the urge to vomit. While this seems ideal for pregnant women in Arizona, studies show the drug puts women at higher risk for many Zofran side effects.

An adult dose, which is 32mg, is usually given either as a single dose or divided up into multiple doses throughout the day. Pregnant women who were prescribed Zofran were generally directed to take three 8mg doses throughout the day. However, An Arizona zofran lawsuit attorney has seen many cases where the drug is linked to myriad side effects as well as birth defects for a newborn.

Side effects can either be common, less common, or rare. These include: 

Common Side Effects

• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Fever
• Headache
• Shortness of breath
• Weakness

Less Common Side Effects

• Decreased frequency of urination
• Decrease in urine volume
• Difficulty urinating
• Painful urination

Rare Side Effects

• Arm, back, or jaw pain
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Chest tightness or heaviness
• Convulsions
• Loss of appetite
• Loss of bladder control
• Loss of consciousness
• Mood changes
• Muscle pain or cramps
• Numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips
• Puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
• Skin rash, hives, or itching
• Sweating
• Total body jerking
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Blurred vision

Additionally, in pregnant women with electrolyte imbalances, Serotonin Syndrome symptoms have been reported in relation with the drug. Because Zofran affects serotonin in the brain, it is not safe to use in patients with a pre-existing electrolyte imbalance. Serotonin Syndrome causes changes to behavior and cognitive abilities, and if misdiagnosed, can lead to death. Though common symptoms may occur, such as anxiety and restlessness, more specific symptoms indicative of Serotonin Syndrome may be present. These include the following:

• Agitation or restlessness
• Confusion
• Rapid heart rate and high blood pressure
• Dilated pupils
• Loss of muscle coordination or twitching muscles
• Muscle rigidity
• Heavy sweating
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Shivering
• Loss of consciousness
• Coma

Recent studies have indicated a link between Zofran and a handful of birth defects in Arizona and throughout the country. The FDA has recognized these risks, but for some reason, the drug is still prescribed to pregnant women. The following birth defects linked to Zofran include:

• Musculoskeletal anomalies
• Mouth deformities (cleft lip & cleft palate)
• Jaundice
• Heart defects
• Intrauterine growth restriction
• Kidney malformations
• Death

Although cleft palate seems to be the most common birth defect, other defects can occur. This includes limb malformations, which may cause a child to be born with missing limbs or with limbs that are not proportionate to other limbs. A series of heart defects can also arise, such as ventricular septal defects, which leaves the baby with a hole in the heart. This occurs when the septum does not fully form to separate the lower chambers of the heart.

If you were prescribed Zofran in Arizona while pregnant and have suffered any Zofran side effects, or gave birth to a child with birth defects, contact the law offices of Knapp & Roberts. Our Arizona zofran lawyers have over 20 years of experience working on a variety of personal injury cases.

We handle cases of all sizes and have brought many successful claims against large corporations and pharmaceutical companies in Arizona. We have the expertise and knowledge to handle all forms of prescription drug cases and malpractice suits. We do not charge you out-of-pocket costs, and we will only collect payment if you win your case. Knapp & Roberts assumes all financial risks to make this a possibility for our clients. Your story deserves to be heard, and you deserve an attorney that will represent you with dedication and passion.