Certain Medications Linked to Autism

Seattle, WAThe link between autism and medicines is still not well understood, although research suggests links between maternal use of certain medications and autism. For example, a link between the use of SSRIs and autism has been suggested in preliminary research, although more research must be done to further establish the link.

The concern for any pregnant woman who may have to take medication is what effect the medication will have on her unborn child. Some drugs have been linked in studies to an increased risk of birth defects, preterm delivery and developmental delays. What is less understood is whether the use of medications while pregnant can cause autism in infants. And even in circumstances where drugs have been linked to an increased risk of autism, it is still possible that the benefits of the drug outweigh the risks, leaving the mother to decide whether or not the drug is worth the possible consequences.

Some studies (including one published in the Archives of General Psychiatry; 7/11) suggest that the use of SSRI medications while pregnant is linked to an increased risk of autism. SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are used to treat depression, and while studies suggest that using them while pregnant has some risks, other studies show that having untreated depression while pregnant can also be risky.

Valproic acid (sold in the US under the brand name Depakote) has also been linked to an increased risk of autism in newborns. According to the prescribing information for valproate, "There have been reports of developmental delay, autism and/or autism spectrum disorder in the offspring of women exposed to valproate during pregnancy."

Thalidomide has also been linked to an increased risk of autism in newborns. One study, conducted by researchers in Sweden, found that of 100 infants exposed to thalidomide, at least four met the full criteria for autistic disorder. "Thalidomide embryopathy of the kind encountered in these cases affects fetal development early in pregnancy, probably on days 20 to 24 after conception," researchers noted.

Concern about use of certain drugs during pregnancy revolves around the infant's brain development. After all, if anything interferes with the infant's brain development, the consequences could be permanent. Unfortunately, this could include the development of autism in a newborn.