Is Paracetamol Really Safe During Pregnancy?
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Synopsis
A recent study raises concerns about the safety of paracetamol during pregnancy, suggesting links to neurodevelopmental disorders in children. This alarming finding urges expectant mothers to reconsider their pain management choices. Can paracetamol really impact fetal brain development? Discover what the research reveals.
Key Takeaways
- Paracetamol may be linked to neurodevelopmental disorders.
- Over 50% of pregnant women use acetaminophen.
- Research analyzed data from over 100,000 participants.
- Immediate measures are needed to guide expectant mothers.
- More research is necessary to fully understand the risks.
New Delhi, Aug 16 (NationPress) Although paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, has traditionally been the go-to pain relief option during pregnancy, recent research suggests it could be linked to neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) such as autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in infants.
Acetaminophen stands as the most frequently utilized over-the-counter medication among pregnant women, with over 50% of expectant mothers globally relying on it for headaches, pain, or fever.
Researchers from Harvard and Massachusetts universities examined 46 studies involving data from over 100,000 participants. Among these, 27 studies found significant correlations with NDDs.
“Most studies indicated a positive association between prenatal acetaminophen usage and ADHD, ASD, or NDDs in children,” stated Andrea A. Baccarelli, the study's lead author from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
Acetaminophen is known to penetrate the placental barrier, potentially causing oxidative stress, hormonal disruptions, and epigenetic changes that may hinder fetal brain development, which could clarify these associations, the researcher noted.
Existing literature has also pointed to a possible connection between acetaminophen and neurodevelopmental disorders.
A 2017 investigation revealed an increased risk for ADHD in mothers who consumed acetaminophen for 22 to 28 days. Another study published in February indicated that acetaminophen exposure heightened the likelihood of ADHD, particularly in girls.
The study pointed out that despite acetaminophen being the preferred analgesic due to its relatively safer profile compared to other medications, its use should be approached with caution, especially given the potential risks to fetal development during the perinatal period.
“Immediate measures should be taken to guide pregnant women in minimizing acetaminophen intake to safeguard their children’s neurodevelopment,” Baccarelli emphasized, calling for further studies to clarify the risks involved.
Point of View
I believe it is crucial to present the latest research with an unbiased lens. The findings regarding acetaminophen usage during pregnancy highlight the need for cautious evaluation of common medications. While paracetamol has been deemed relatively safe, this study serves as a reminder that ongoing research is necessary to ensure the best outcomes for both mothers and their children.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main concern about paracetamol during pregnancy?
Recent studies suggest that paracetamol may be linked to neurodevelopmental disorders in children, such as autism and ADHD.
How many studies were reviewed in the research?
Researchers analyzed 46 studies that included data from over 100,000 individuals.
What did the studies indicate about prenatal acetaminophen use?
Most studies reported significant associations between prenatal acetaminophen use and neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring.
Should pregnant women avoid paracetamol altogether?
While acetaminophen is widely used, caution is advised, and pregnant women should consult healthcare professionals for guidance.
What should be done next regarding this research?
Further studies are needed to clarify the risks associated with acetaminophen use during pregnancy.
