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CAUSES OF AUTISM

The exact cause of autism is unknown but it is believed that there are multiple factors that cause the disorder. Scientific research suggests that it is a combination of genetic and environmental factors that can lead to the varying degrees seen in the Autism Spectrum.

Recent research has linked exposure to a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) during pregnancy with a significantly higher risk of autism.

In a report published in Archives of General Psychology, new research uncovered a strong link between the use of these popular antidepressants and autism in children. The report's objective was to study the prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in children that were prenatally exposed to antidepressant medications taken by mothers. The research was conducted in northern California at the Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program using 298 case children with ASD and 1,507 case children randomly selected.

Researchers found a 2-fold increased risk of autism in children when SSRI antidepressant medications were taken by mothers in the year leading up to their child's delivery. Mothers that took SSRI antidepressants during the first trimester of their pregnancy were found to have a 3-fold increased risk of giving birth to a child with ASD. The results of this research suggest that SSRI's taken prenatally, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy, may "modestly increase the risk of ASD."

If you or a loved one has given birth to a child with autism after ingesting Celexa, Lexapro, or Prozac, during your pregnancy, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact an experienced attorney at Baum, Hedlund, Aristei & Goldman for more information regarding your and your child’s legal rights.