Common Medications during Pregnancy May Increase the Risk of Autism in Children

8th January 2025

2 minutes read

Common Medications during Pregnancy May Increase the Risk of Autism in Children

A recent study has shown that anti-inflammatory medications, taken by millions of pregnant women worldwide, may raise the risk of autism in their children. The study investigated the effects of glucocorticoids, a type of steroid, on children exposed to these medications while in the womb.

Researchers found that children exposed to these medications were 30% to 50% more likely to develop autism compared to children whose mothers did not take these drugs. Additionally, glucocorticoids, such as prednisone and cortisone, were linked to an increased risk of intellectual disabilities, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and anxiety.

These medications are commonly used by pregnant women to prevent premature births, as they aid in the development and maturation of the fetus’s organs. They are also prescribed for women with autoimmune or inflammatory disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and asthma, to suppress immune responses. However, the recent study suggests that excessive fetal exposure to these drugs may negatively affect brain development.

While the side effects of long-term glucocorticoid use, such as weight gain and osteoporosis, have been known for decades, the study conducted in Denmark indicates that these medications may also harm children’s brain development.

Researchers examined the developmental data of over 1.1 million children born between 1996 and 2016, of whom more than 300,000 were exposed to these medications in utero. They tracked these children for 15 years after birth to determine the impact of medication exposure on their development.

The findings revealed that children exposed to these medications were 50% more likely to develop autism compared to others. Additionally, the risk of intellectual disabilities and ADHD was 30% higher in the exposed group. Mood disorders, anxiety, and stress-related conditions were also 50% more prevalent.

For children of mothers with autoimmune or inflammatory conditions, the risk of autism and ADHD was 30% higher, while mood disorders and intellectual disabilities were 40% more frequent in the exposed group.