Does taking methylphenidate increase the chance of miscarriage?
Miscarriage is common and can occur in any pregnancy for many different reasons. It is not known if taking methylphenidate increases the chance of miscarriage. One small study found a small increased chance for miscarriage in pregnant persons. As there can be many causes of miscarriage, it is hard to know if a medication, the medical condition, or other factors are the cause of a miscarriage.
Does taking methylphenidate increase the chance of birth defects?
Every pregnancy starts out with a 3-5% chance of having a birth defect. This is called the background risk. Information from studies looking at about 2,200 pregnancies suggests methylphenidate is not expected to increase the chance of birth defects above the background risk. Most studies have reported healthy babies delivered at full-term after exposure to methylphenidate. One large database study suggested an increased chance for heart defects when methylphenidate is used in pregnancy. Other studies have not suggested an increased chance for heart defects. Research has not been done on the skin patch and pregnancy.
Does taking methylphenidate in pregnancy increase the chance of other pregnancy-related problems?
Limited research does not suggest an increased chance for other pregnancy-related problems, such as preterm delivery (birth before week 37) or low birth weight (weighing less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces at birth) when methylphenidate is taken as prescribed during pregnancy.
I need to take methylphenidate throughout my entire pregnancy. Will it cause withdrawal symptoms in my baby after birth?
The use of methylphenidate during pregnancy can cause temporary symptoms in newborns soon after birth. These symptoms are sometimes referred to as withdrawal. However, this has not been seen with use of methylphenidate when taken as prescribed. Not all babies exposed to methylphenidate will have symptoms. It is important that your healthcare providers know you are taking methylphenidate so that if symptoms occur your baby can get the care that is best for them.
Does taking methylphenidate in pregnancy affect future behavior or learning for the child?
Methylphenidate is not expected to increase the chance for behavior or learning issues for the child. Limited studies have shown typical growth in children up to one year of age who were exposed to methylphenidate during pregnancy. Studies have shown no changes in neurodevelopment in children after being exposed to methylphenidate during pregnancy.
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