Sterol-Pathway Meds in Pregnancy Tied to Higher Autism Risk, Large U.S. Study Finds

A national study of 6.14 million U.S. births links prenatal exposure to sterol biosynthesis‑inhibiting medications (SBIMs)—a class including certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, beta-blockers, and statins—with increased autism risk in children. Any SBIM exposure raised ASD risk about 1.47-fold, increasing to 2.33-fold for four or more SBIMs used concurrently. SBIM exposure grew from 4.6% of pregnancies in 2014 to 16.8% in 2023. The researchers stress cautious prescribing during pregnancy, the need for safer options when possible, and further research into the mechanisms, noting many SBIMs are medically necessary.