Intrauterine exposure to the beta-adrenergic receptor-blocking agent metoprolol and allergy.
Cord blood IgE levels and the development of allergy were studied in 29 children born by mothers who had been treated with the beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent, metoprolol, during the pregnancy and in 23 children of placebo-treated mothers. In 13 (45%) of the former and 3 (15%) of the placebo group elevated cord blood IgE levels, i.e. more than 0.9 kU/l and/or obvious or probable allergy developed (p = 0.03). The findings support previous experimental observations that beta-blocking agents may enhance IgE antibody formation. It also adds to the number of environmental factors that may increase the risk for atopic disease in children.
Björkstén
B
B
Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden.
Finnström
O
O
Wichman
K
K
D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D005312:Fetal Blood / Q000032:analysis; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000209:etiology*; D007073:Immunoglobulin E / Q000097:blood; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008431:Maternal-Fetal Exchange; D008790:Metoprolol / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011943:Receptors, Adrenergic, beta / Q000187:drug effects
D011943:Receptors, Adrenergic, beta; D007073:Immunoglobulin E; D008790:Metoprolol