Study Examines if Prenatal Exposure to Sedatives Is Linked to Psych Disorders
Key Takeaways: Prenatal exposure to benzodiazepines or Z-hypnotics was not associated with an increased risk of psychiatric or neurodevelopmental disorders in children in a South Korean cohort study. An initial link was observed, but it disappeared in a sibling-controlled analysis, suggesting that familial or environmental factors -- rather than medication -- was driving the association. While the findings offer reassurance, the researchers cautioned that this study does not rule out other pregnancy risks, such as miscarriages or congenital malformations.
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