Epilepsy drugs- Source of autism for new born babies

The Autism News | English

By Neeraj Nair | Merinews
The researches were jointly carried out by Liverpool and Manchester Neurodevelopment Group that consisted of various multidisciplinary groups of psychologists, geneticists, neurologists, midwives and support staff.
EPILEPSY HAS caught the attention of various scientists over the years. Experts from various countries and with vast experience have been trying to find out a viable solution for this problem. In a series of new researches, it is said that if a woman takes Epilepsy drug during the course of pregnancy there will be a possible chance of her new born being born with autism. The drug Valproate which has a stronger affect than other drugs increases the above said probability amongst children.
The common symptoms of autism may include language and diction problems, lack of attention, lack of social awareness and inability to cope up with others’ feelings. Whereas, epilepsy has a different meaning altogether. Epilepsy is improper neurological functioning or a neurological disorder. Symptoms of epilepsy may include unusual behaviour like banging, head jerking apart from inattentive staring at the speaker, conversational problems etc.
A study by author Gus Baker, PhD, FBPsS, of the University of Liverpool, England says, “The potential risk for autism in this study was substantial for children whose mothers took valproate while pregnant, but more research needs to be done since these are early findings. However, women who take valproate while pregnant should be informed of the possible risks of autism and are encouraged to discuss them with their doctor. Those who are taking valproate should not stop their treatment without speaking to their doctor first.”
The researches were jointly carried out by Liverpool and Manchester Neurodevelopment Group that consisted of various multidisciplinary groups of psychologists, geneticists, neurologists, midwives and support staff.
Source: http://www.merinews.com/article/epilepsy-drugs–source-of-autism-for-new-born-babies/15823988.shtml
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