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Neurodevelopmental and Functional Outcomes Following In Utero Exposure to Antiseizure Medication: A Systematic Review
Eliza Honybun1, Emily Cockle1, Charles B Malpas1
1From the Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences (E.H., C.B.M., G.R.), The University of Melbourne; Epilepsy Research Centre (E.H., P.P., G.R.), Department of Medicine, Austin Hospital, The University of Melbourne; Department of Neuroscience (E.C., C.B.M., T.J.O.B., F.J.V., P.P., G.R.), Central Clinical School, Monash University; Department of Neurology (E.C., C.B.M., T.J.O.B., P.P., G.R.), The Alfred Hospital; Department of Neurology (C.B.M., T.J.O.B., F.J.V., P.P.), Royal Melbourne Hospital; Department of Medicine (C.B.M., T.J.O.B., F.J.V.), Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne; Bladin-Berkovic Comprehensive Epilepsy Program (P.P.), Department of Neurology, Austin Health; and Department of Clinical Neuropsychology (G.R.), Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia.
Prenatal exposure to valproate and topiramate significantly increases risks for autism and intellectual disability in offspring. Lamotrigine appears safe, but data on other antiseizure medications (ASMs) are limited, necessitating further research.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Antiseizure medications (ASMs) are crucial for managing epilepsy during pregnancy.
- Understanding the neurodevelopmental impact of prenatal ASM exposure is critical for maternal and child health.
Conclusions:
- Prenatal exposure to valproate and topiramate significantly elevates the risk of fetal neurodevelopmental effects.
- Lamotrigine is a seemingly safe option, but conclusive data for many other ASMs are lacking.
- Further research is essential to evaluate the neurodevelopmental effects of prenatal exposure to a wider range of ASMs, especially newer agents.
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