A recent study in Sweden has created further evidence that antidepressant use during pregnancy increases the risk of autism spectrum disorders in children.
The study controlled for other variables like family income, parent educational level, and maternal and paternal age that have not been previously associated with autism. This is the second study in two years to associate antidepressant use during pregnancy with an increased incidence of autism in exposed children.
While the study did not exclude the possibility that severe depression, rather than antidepressants, created the association, the authors did urge patients to seek other treatments besides selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (S.S.R.I.'s) and tricyclicantidepressants.
"Informed decisions would also need to consider weighting the wider risks of untreated depression with the other adverse outcomes related to antidepressant use," the study states. "With the current evidence, if the potential risk of autism were a consideration in the decision-making process, it may be reasonable to think about, wherever appropriate, nondrugapproaches such as psychological treatments." Read the full details here:
Study Links Autism With Antidepressant Use During Pregnancy
This eye-opening research could help explain the wide use of anti-depressants caused birth defects, including autism, when used in pregnant women.
If you believe your child suffered a birth injury due to medical negligence, please call to investigate your matter fully. Crandall & Pera Law is available to help answer your questions and guide you in determining your next steps.