Causes of Autism Not Fully Understood

Santa Fe, NMWhen it comes to causes of autism, not much is fully understood. Debate still rages about the link between immunizations and autism, even though the research that established such a link has been largely discredited. But there are other drugs that have been linked to the development of autism. One study has suggested a link between use of an SSRI and autism, while other studies suggest epilepsy medications and other pharmaceuticals may play a role in the development of autism.

According to a study published in Neurology (and reported by ABC News; 12/2/08), women who take Depakote while pregnant may be at an increased risk of having a baby with autism, although experts noted that because the drug is used to prevent seizures the benefits of Depakote may still outweigh the risk of autism. The study found that children who were exposed to sodium valproate (the generic form of Depakote) while in the womb were seven times more likely to develop autism than children who were not exposed to an epilepsy drug.

Despite the increased risk of autism, uncontrolled seizures also present a serious risk to the mother and unborn baby, including permanent damage. Researchers noted that the study was preliminary and should be followed up.

Meanwhile, a study conducted at Duke University suggested that the use of terbutaline during pregnancy is linked to an increased risk of autism, brain damage and cognitive deficits in babies exposed to the drug prior to birth. Terbutaline is prescribed for asthma but is often also used off-label to prevent preterm labor.

In July 2011, a study published in the Archives of General Psychiatry suggested a link between the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and the development of autism in children. The study found that exposure to an antidepressant, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy, was associated with a modestly increased risk of autism spectrum disorder. Researchers noted that there is a risk to the mother of having untreated depression, making it important to balance the risk of depression against the risk of autism.