UNMC researchers link pregnancy medications disrupting cholesterol to higher autism risk
Updated
Updated · SciTechDaily · Apr 27
UNMC researchers link pregnancy medications disrupting cholesterol to higher autism risk
8 articles · Updated · SciTechDaily · Apr 27
Analyzing 6.14 million U.S. maternal-child records, the study found prenatal exposure to sterol biosynthesis-inhibiting medications raised autism risk up to 2.33 times when four or more drugs were used.
Fifteen widely prescribed drugs, including certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, beta-blockers, and statins, were implicated, with prenatal use rising from 4.6% in 2014 to 16.8% in 2023.
Researchers urge caution, recommend safer prescribing practices, and emphasize not stopping medications without medical advice, highlighting the need for further research and provider awareness regarding cholesterol pathway disruption during pregnancy.
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How does disrupting cholesterol in the womb increase a child's risk of developing autism?