Beta-2 Agonists Tied to ASD Risk? - Scorecard - MDSpire

Beta-2 Agonists Tied to ASD Risk?

Systematic review of 8 observational studies found limited evidence on associations between prenatal asthma-medication exposure and neurodevelopmental outcomes, with autism spectrum disorder the only outcome suitable for meta-analysis.

  • By

  • Andrea Surnit

  • June 24, 2026

  • 4 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Beta-2 Agonists Tied to ASD Risk?

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionAutism Spectrum Disorder
Key MechanismsPrenatal exposure to beta-2-adrenergic agonists
Target PopulationPregnant individuals with asthma
Care SettingObservational studies in high-income countries

Key Highlights

  • Prenatal exposure to beta-2-adrenergic agonists associated with ASD risk.
  • Adjusted pooled effect estimate of 1.29 for ASD with prenatal exposure.
  • Preconception exposure associated with an adjusted pooled effect estimate of 1.34.
  • Mixed evidence for associations with other neurodevelopmental outcomes.
  • Concerns about confounding by indication or asthma severity.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Consider prenatal exposure to beta-2-adrenergic agonists in ASD assessments.

Management

  • Continue asthma medication during pregnancy as per Global Initiative for Asthma guidance.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Monitor for neurodevelopmental outcomes in offspring of mothers exposed to beta-2-adrenergic agonists.

Risks

  • Potential confounding factors include maternal asthma severity and treatment indication.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Pregnant individuals with asthma requiring beta-2-adrenergic agonists.

Evidence suggests caution in interpreting associations with ASD due to confounding factors.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Assess maternal asthma management during pregnancy.
  • Evaluate the necessity of beta-2-adrenergic agonists on a case-by-case basis.

Related Resources & Content

Original Source(s)

Beta-2 Agonists Tied to ASD Risk?

  • by Andrea Surnit

  • June 24, 2026

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