Opiates&autism???

[overopiates]

Ive been here nearly a year and know quite a bit about pregnancy&opiates.I just read a really long old thread where someone(s)said opiates during pregnancy cause autism which Ive NEVER heard the link(a woman I guess assumed her kid has autism cause she took perks or tabs she was prescibed during pregnancy).Does ANYONE know if there have been studies that show a link to this?I ask because I think its completely wrong&telling scared,pregnant addicts looking for help a reason to panic for no reason....anyone????

[specialmom]

Well, there was something called the 'opiate theory' that Jaak Panksepp proposed in the late 70's.  The theory had something to do with  metabolising the opiates would interfere with neurological development of a growing fetus.  Really, when I've read it----  that theory is old and they are describing sensory integration disorder which is what my own son has rather than true autism.  (many autistic kids do have sensory though.)    

I'm sure if opiates are used in excess, it could cause a developmental issue.  But, so can over a dozen other things.  Heck, being an older mom or having an older dad is a common link these days.  Genetics play a really key role.  

You start to wonder if ANYTHING is really preventable.  Hopefully everyone works with their doctor and does the best they can while pregnant but really in the end,  you deal with what God hands you and can only control so much.  And ALL children are blessings in my opinion.    

[Free2agoodhome]

be careful of well meaning advice givers...speak with the OBGYN (thinks thats right spelling),,no one here is a doctor..get the knowledge,,,if u have to stop cold turkey we are here for you  ....baby should a clean start IMO(recovery hug),,,,,,

[vicki595]

Hi- I've never heard that.  I heard recently that researchers have found a genetic link in 14% of autistic children but otherwise are still clueless as to any other direct link.  Have you googled "opiates and autism"? See if there's anything there...(now I'm curious. lol)

[overopiates]

Thanks.Im not pregnant and have been clean almost a year I just wondered cause I read a thread thats years old&been commented on recently and one person said opiates during pregnancy cause autism which I thought was ludicrious.thanx

[killmypain]

I have been studying things of this nature and I have not seen any links here..... The thing about autism is that there are so many avenues to it that there are no specific diagnostic criteria, instead it is defined as a spectrum.... It is difficult to link cause and effect when the diagnostic criteria are so vague..... If you can stop doing drugs while you are pregnant, you should.... just like if you can quit smoking or drinking coffee.... however sometimes the struggle of quitting without help can cause a reaction in you body that can be detrimental to a developing baby.... It is ALWAYS your best bet to consult your doctor on these issues.... Find a doctor who you trust... If you find that you question his information... get another doctor's opinion.... Medicine is a science, however it is a lot of speculation....

[overopiates]

Bumping this cause Im really curious