Objectives:

To determine whether maternal decongestant use is related to the risk of gastroschisis or small intestinal atresia in offspring.

Methods:

This was a multicenter case-control study. Subjects were ascertained from tertiary care institutions in Boston , Philadelphia , Toronto , New York , Minneapolis , Cincinnati , St. Louis , Denver , Washington , DC, and Chicago . Mothers of subjects were interviewed by telephone about demographic factors; reproductive and medical histories; drug, cigarette, alcohol, and caffeine exposures; and nutrition. A pamphlet containing photos of OTC medications for cough, colds, flu, and allergies was mailed to mothers prior to the interview to help identify specific products taken. Diagnoses were confirmed by surgeon or neonatologist.

Investigators:

Martha M. Werler, Sc.D., Co-Principal Investigator
Allen A. Mitchell, M.D., Co-Principal Investigator

Source of funding:

Warner Lambert Co.; Procter and Gamble Co.; Marion Merrell Dow, Inc.

Study Period:

August 1994 - November 1998

Publications:

Link to Publications