Recent research has raised concerns about the potential impact of anti-inflammatory drugs on the development of autism in babies, particularly when taken by pregnant women. The new research study looked at the impact on children who are exposed to glucocorticoids, a type of anti-inflammatory steroids, in the womb.

The study, hailing from Denmark, followed the development of a sampling of more than 1 million infants born between 1996 and 2016. Of these children, more than 300,000 were exposed to glucocorticoids while developing in the womb. Researchers revisited these children 15 years later to see how the glucocorticoids affected their development and found that those exposed to the drugs were between 30 and 50 percent more likely to be diagnosed with autism.

Some of the women in the study had been given steroids to prevent premature birth, while the vast majority of mothers had been administered the drug to treat autoimmune or inflammatory conditions.

Glucocorticoids include a variety of prescription drugs given to pregnant women for many reasons including prevention of premature birth, autoimmune or inflammatory conditions, asthma, etc.

The most common drugs found in this class in the Untied States are prednisone, triamcinolone acetonide, and methylprednisolone. The steroids glucocorticoids betamethasone and dexamethasone are those given to prevent premature birth.

Researchers suggest that their data supports “continued caution” when doctors are prescribing glucocorticoids to their pregnant women. They also suggest that if a patient has an autoimmune or inflammatory disorder, that prescribers might seek alternative drugs for their patients as they “might be safer and could potentially decrease the use of glucocorticoids, but evidence is lacking and more research is needed.”

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. While the exact cause of autism remains unclear, researchers have identified genetic and environmental factors that may contribute to the development of the disorder.

As more studies unfold, it is crucial for expectant mothers to stay informed and consult with their healthcare providers to make the best decisions for their health and their child’s well-being.