Offspring Neurodevelopment Disorders and Late Pregnancy Antiseizure Medication Exposure

Clinical Takeaway

: Late in utero exposure to certain antiseizure medications, particularly older medications topiramate, carbamazepine, and valproate, is associated with increased combined risk for neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring.

Context

Gestational antiseizure medication (ASM) exposure can contribute to congenital malformations and neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). However, data on neurodevelopmental risks associated with exposure to specific ASMs, particularly newer ASMs, are limited. In this population-based, multicohort study drawn from four Canadian provinces (Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec) and one U.S. database between 1996 and 2021, researchers extracted claims data to compare NDD diagnoses in the offspring of pregnant individuals with and without records of ASM prescriptions in the 60 days before birth.

Although outcomes were adjusted for ASM indication, maternal health and lifestyle, infant characteristics, and labor/delivery complications, only t…

Reviewing Author

Tanya J. W. McDonald, M.D., Ph.D.

Disclosures

Grant/Research SupportAmerican Epilepsy Society; American Heart Association

Tanya J. W. McDonald, M.D., Ph.D.

Disclosures

Grant/Research SupportAmerican Epilepsy Society; American Heart Association

Offspring Neurodevelopment Disorders and Late Pregnancy Antiseizure Medication Exposure

Topics

Clinical Takeaway

Context

Reviewing Author