Investigating the safety of certain sedatives during pregnancy

Safety of Benzodiazepines and Non-Benzodiazepine Sedative Hypnotics in Pregnancy

NIH-funded research Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11082441

This study is looking at how safe certain sleep medications are for pregnant women, especially during the first three months, to help doctors and moms-to-be make better choices if they're dealing with anxiety or trouble sleeping.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11082441 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines the safety of benzodiazepines and non-benzodiazepine sedative hypnotics in pregnant women, particularly focusing on their effects during the first trimester. It aims to gather comprehensive safety data to better inform the risk-benefit analysis for women experiencing anxiety disorders and insomnia during pregnancy. The study involves collaboration between mental health and obstetrical health providers to ensure informed decision-making. By analyzing the impact of these medications on fetal development, the research seeks to clarify existing conflicting evidence regarding their use.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women in their first trimester who are experiencing severe anxiety or insomnia.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who do not have anxiety disorders or insomnia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide critical insights into the safe use of sedatives during pregnancy, potentially improving maternal and fetal health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown mixed results regarding the safety of sedatives during pregnancy, indicating a need for further investigation in this area.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.