April 29, 2026 · BMJ (Clinical research ed.) · DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2025-088671

Benzodiazepine or Z-hypnotic use during pregnancy and risk of psychiatric disorders in children: population based cohort study

Listen to this summary

The authors aimed to investigate the relationship between prenatal exposure to benzodiazepines or Z-hypnotics and the risk of psychiatric disorders in children. Their population-based cohort study found no significant increase in psychiatric disorders among children exposed to these medications during pregnancy after controlling for familial factors, although some subgroup analyses suggested modestly elevated risks in specific contexts, particularly with exposure during the latter half of pregnancy. Overall, the findings indicate that while there may be slight risks in certain situations, the general association appears minimal.

Yongtai Cho, Ahhyung Choi, Jieun Woo, Jung Yeol Han, Jae-Won Kim, Ju-Young Shin

This is one of 33,000+ journals available on OSLR. Try it free for 14 days.

Free 14-day trial. 33,000+ journals. Cancel anytime.

14-day free trial. No commitment.

"Oslr has become part of my weekly routine on my day off. The clinical relevance of the summaries is outstanding — I'd rate it 9/10. Being able to consume research hands-free is a huge advantage for busy physicians."

Dr. Jennifer Thompson

Dr. Jennifer Thompson

Portland, OR

Stay current without falling behind

33,000+ journals. 3-minute audio summaries. Free for 14 days.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play