The effect of antipsychotic treatment, during the perinatal period, on the neurodevelopment of children: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background Managing mental disorders in the perinatal period is a challenge. The most common mental disorders encountered in this period are major depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and psychotic disorders. Purpose This study aimed to investigate the neurodevelopmental effects in children born to mothers who were on antipsychotic medication, during pregnancy. Methodology: Databases MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, PsychInfo, Google Scholar and Scopus searched according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. The studies involved mothers with preconception or relapsed mental illness receiving antipsychotic medication during the perinatal period and their children were screened for any neurodevelopmental disorders. From the initial search of the literature, 277 articles emerged and applying the criteria, according to the methodology, we identified 15 articles. Results Three studies were identified in which children were exposed and developed ADHD with a pooled odds ratio of 2.33 (95% CI = 1.69–3.20, p < 0.001) indicating that children exposed to antipsychotics are more likely to develop ADHD than unexposed children. Regarding socio-emotional and mental development, it was found that the pooled odds ratio was 2.33 (95% CI = 1.68–3.22, p < 0.001) indicating that exposed children are more likely to show delay compared to unexposed children. This relationship was statistically significant. Finally, it was found that children who were exposed and showed a delay in motor development had a pooled odds ratio of 2.93 (95% CI = 1.86–4.61, p < 0.001). Discussion Fetal exposure to antipsychotic medication can cause short-term developmental delays in motor, social-emotional, and adaptive behavior. However, further investigation is needed since the number of studies.