Side effects of epilepsy drugs like Depakote during pregnancy have been linked to an increased risk of birth defects and developmental disorders among children in previous studies.
Findings come after numerous prior studies have also linked side effects of Depakote during pregnancy to an increase of autism, as well as other intellectual disabilities in children.
Moderate to late preterm births account for 80% of all preterm births, researchers noted.
Researchers are calling for improved bone density screening for patients taking anti-seizure medications due to epilepsy.
The study also found increased risks of ADHD among children whose mothers used Topamax during pregnancy, and ADHD and anxiety among those who used Keppra XR.
Different types of maternal diabetes carried different risks for autism and other types of developmental delays, researchers warn
High doses of folic acid are often used to prevent birth defects for women taking epilepsy drugs like Depakote and Topamax
Gabapentin problems with misuse and abuse are increasing, with overdoses often involving the use of opioid medications as well, researchers found.
Taking Depakote or Topamax during pregnancy increased the risk of a child being born with autism or intellectual disabilities two to four times.
Concerns over Depakote side effects have focused mainly on birth defect risks when taken by pregnant women.
