An observational study of 7,579 pregnancies linked the use of medicines targeting calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) to a higher risk of miscarriage among women exposed to them, without establishing that the medicines directly caused the pregnancy losses. The study analysed data from women who used this drug class, which targets CGRP, a peptide involved in migraine attacks.
The role of CGRP in pregnancy and the placenta
It also helps regulate blood flow, embryo implantation and placental development, making the effects of medicines targeting it during pregnancy a subject of research interest. The findings showed a higher risk of miscarriage among women exposed to these medicines, while the use of propranolol was not associated with an increased risk.
However, the researchers explained that the observational nature of the study did not allow them to establish a direct causal relationship between the treatment and miscarriage. They said the results may have been affected by other factors, including the severity of migraine among the participating women.
They called for further studies to assess the safety of these medicines during pregnancy more accurately. The researchers advised women planning to become pregnant to discuss treatment options and potential risks with a doctor before deciding to change or stop their medicines.
