International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

A new study has found a link between the use of psychotropic medication during pregnancy and an increased risk of the baby suffering some form of birth defect.

Between 1998 and 2007, the use of psychotropic medicines was linked with 429 adverse drug reactions in children under 17 in Denmark, researchers from the University of Copenhagen's Faculty of Pharmaceutical Studies found.

More than half of the 429 cases were serious and several involved birth defects, including deformities and severe withdrawal symptoms.

"A range of serious side effects such as birth deformities, low birth weight, premature birth, and development of neonatal withdrawal syndrome were reported in children under two years of age, most likely because of the mother’s intake of psychotropic medication during pregnancy," said Professor Lise Aagaard from the university.

Psychotropic medicines are those which are capable of affecting the mind, emotions and behaviour - they are usually used to treat depression.

Posted by Paul Robertson