The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has announced the launch of a call for evidence in relation to oral hormonal pregnancy tests (HPT’s) like Primodos and their links to birth defects. HPT’s are no longer in use here in the UK (as well as many other countries) since the 1970’s following concerns over side effects in children.
The Injury Lawyers, as a law firm with decades of experience in representing victims of negligence, have welcomed the launch of the investigation.
A government review of links between HPT’s and birth defects was examined in October 2014 and the MHRA report that a group of experts is being convened with conclusions expected to be drawn in early 2016. The MHRA are asking for any person or organisation with any information or evidence that could assist to come forward.
Much like the victims of the Thalidomide scandal, it is thought that it will be difficult to link injuries and defects to the use of the drug. Here in the UK victims of the Thalidomide scandal have faced significant difficulty in obtaining compensation as a result of the huge burden of proof required to show that the drug was not only used, but had directly caused the defects.
There have been calls by action groups for more investigation in to the alleged links in HPT’s and birth defects for years, and in recent months many of the alleged victims of the drug have gained growing support from MP’s across the country. Following successful legal actions in Australia and Spain in relation to Thalidomide claims, it is hoped that the UK can follow suit and ensure that any victims of HPT drugs can be compensated where appropriate.
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