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Paracetamol Safe for Pregnant Women: New Review
17 Jan
Summary
- Major review finds no increased risk of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability.
- Untreated pain and fever during pregnancy pose greater risks, experts warn.
- Millions of pregnant women can use paracetamol safely, researchers state.
A comprehensive review of scientific evidence has concluded that paracetamol (acetaminophen) is safe for use during pregnancy. This ruling addresses widespread concerns that the common painkiller might be linked to developmental issues in children, including autism and ADHD.
Senior obstetricians emphasized that avoiding paracetamol due to inconclusive or biased evidence could be more detrimental. Untreated pain and fever in expectant mothers are known to heighten the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and birth defects. The debate surrounding paracetamol has become politicized, creating confusion for pregnant women and healthcare providers alike.
The international research team analyzed 43 studies, giving particular weight to sibling-comparison studies. Their findings, published recently, indicated no clinically important increase in the risk of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability in children whose mothers used paracetamol during pregnancy. Experts stress that paracetamol, when used as recommended (short periods, lowest effective dose), is a safe option for managing pain and fever.
