When human placentas are exposed to valproic acid, an anti-epileptic drug, they express lower levels of transporters for compounds essential for fetal growth and development (such as glucose and folic acid), revealed new Epilepsia study.
The findings suggest that valproic acid's effects on the placenta may be involved in the adverse developmental outcomes seen in fetuses exposed to the drug.
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Detailed look at Early pregnancy Symptoms and easy health solutions during 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimester of pregnancy. With an addition of an online pregnancy due date calculator.
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‘Use of the antiepileptic drug valproic acid during pregnancy has been associated with fetal loss, impaired growth, major congenital malformations, increased risk of developmental problems, and autism.’
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"Despite the risk, there are cases in which valproic acid may be the only drug that can control seizures in pregnant women," said senior author Dr. Sara Eyal, of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, in Israel. "We continue our studies to understand why some fetuses are adversely affected by valproic acid whereas others are not."
Source: Eurekalert
Quiz on Autism
Introduction Autism spectrum disorder is a complex genetic disorder that impairs social, behavioral, and communication functions in humans. Autistic people may act, communicate, interact, and learn differently than most other people. ASD usually begins in childhood and can last for the rest of a person's life, though symptoms may improve over time . This quiz on ' Autism
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Valproic Acid
This medication is an anticonvulsant, prescribed for epilepsy, bipolar disorder, and rarely for depression.
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