Does taking lorazepam increase the chance of miscarriage?
Miscarriage is common and can occur in any pregnancy for many different reasons. It is not known if lorazepam could increase the chance of miscarriage. Some studies looking at benzodiazepines as a group suggest an increased chance of miscarriage. As there can be many causes of miscarriage, it is hard to know if a medication, the medical condition being treated, or other factors are the cause of a miscarriage.
Does taking lorazepam increase the chance of birth defects?
Birth defects can happen in any pregnancy for different reasons. Out of all babies born each year, about 3 out of 100 (3%) will have a birth defect. It is unlikely that lorazepam significantly increases the chance of birth defects. One study found a possible association with anal atresia (bottom of the intestinal tract is closed off), and another study found an increased chance of pulmonary valve stenosis (abnormal development of the baby’s heart). However, other studies did not find an increased chance of birth defects with the use of lorazepam.
Does taking lorazepam in pregnancy increase the chance of other pregnancy-related problems?
Some studies have suggested a higher chance of preterm delivery (birth before week 37) and low birth weight (weighing less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces [2500 grams] at birth) in infants that were exposed to lorazepam in the second half of pregnancy. However, not all studies found a higher chance for these pregnancy-related complications. It is possible that other factors, not lorazepam, caused these complications.
I need to take lorazepam throughout my entire pregnancy. Will it cause withdrawal symptoms in my baby after birth?
The use of lorazepam during pregnancy can cause temporary symptoms in newborns soon after birth. These symptoms are sometimes referred to as withdrawal. Symptoms can include irritability, crying, sleep disturbances, tremors, jitteriness, trouble breathing, or muscle weakness. Not all babies exposed to lorazepam will have these symptoms. If symptoms develop, they usually go away within a few weeks and are not known to have any long-term effects for the baby. It is important that your healthcare providers know you are taking lorazepam so that if symptoms occur your baby can get the care that is best for them.
Does taking lorazepam in pregnancy affect future behavior or learning for the child?
Studies have not been done to see if lorazepam can increase the chance of behavior or learning issues for the child.
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