Autism Risk Differs Across Antiseizure Meds
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By
January 29, 2025
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3 min
A cohort study published in The New England Journal of Medicine analyzed data from U.S. health care databases to examine the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) following prenatal exposure to antiseizure medications. The study found that prenatal exposure to topiramate, valproate, and lamotrigine increased the risk of ASD in pediatric patients compared to the general population. Valproate exposure showed a significant increase in the risk of ASD, while topiramate and lamotrigine exposures did not exhibit significant associations. The study emphasized the importance of careful medication management during pregnancy, especially for women with epilepsy, to balance seizure control with potential neurodevelopmental risks.
1. Prenatal exposure to antiseizure medications increases the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in pediatric patients. 2. Valproate showed a significant increase in the risk of ASD, while topiramate and lamotrigine did not exhibit significant associations. 3. The study emphasized the importance of careful medication management during pregnancy, particularly for women with epilepsy. 4. Valproate-exposed patients had an ASD incidence of 10.5% at 8 years of age compared to 4.2% in the general population. 5. The study was funded by the National Institute of Mental Health.
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