Neonatal outcomes after gamma-aminobutyric acid analog use during pregnancy: a meta-analysis of cohort studies.

BACKGROUND

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogs are being used by an increasing number of reproductive-age women. However, there is concern regarding the teratogenic potential of GABA analogs.

METHODS

We performed this systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the relationship between GABA analog exposure and risk of adverse neonatal outcomes.

RESULTS

Eight cohort studies were included in the meta-analysis. Exposure to a GABA analog during pregnancy was not associated with an increased risk of congenital malformation (odds ratio [OR] 1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.96-1.46, P = 0.106) or a small for gestational age (SGA) infant (OR 1.99, 95% CI 0.78-5.1, P = 0.152) compared to no exposure. However, exposure to a GABA analog was associated with an increased risk of preterm birth (PB) (OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.04-2.35, P = 0.033), spontaneous abortion (SA) (OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.14-2.38, P = 0.008), or termination of pregnancy (TOP) (OR 3.02, 95% CI 2-4.56, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Exposure to GABA analogs during pregnancy does not appear to be associated with congenital malformation, although there was some evidence of a higher risk of several other negative neonatal outcomes. Given the few studies included, larger prospective studies controlling for important confounders are needed to verify our findings.