Update on Acetaminophen Use During Pregnancy

Recent Findings from Swedish Researchers

In 2024, researchers in Sweden conducted a nationwide cohort study, concluding that acetaminophen (paracetamol) does not lead to neurodevelopmental issues. They suggest that conditions such as ADHD, intellectual disability (ID), and autism may be more closely linked to genetic factors or infectious diseases that prompted the mother’s use of paracetamol, rather than the medication itself. The study determined that acetaminophen is safe for neurocognitive development during pregnancy.

Study on Acetaminophen and Behavioral Changes

To assess the potential risks of paracetamol during pregnancy, researchers from the University of Bristol investigated its association with behavioral changes in children. Their findings were published in the journal *Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology*.

The study analyzed data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), focusing on 14,000 children and their mothers’ paracetamol use between 18 and 32 weeks of pregnancy. The results indicated that 43.9% of women reported using paracetamol occasionally or frequently during this period.

Impacts on Child Behavior

The researchers discovered that paracetamol use during mid-pregnancy was linked to hyperactivity and attention problems in preschool-aged children. However, these associations were not evident in elementary school children, and it was noted that boys were more likely to be affected.

While this study adds to the evidence suggesting potential negative effects of paracetamol on children, it is essential to acknowledge its limitations. The findings primarily relied on self-reported data collected through questionnaires.

References

Golding, J., Gregory, S., Clark, R., Ellis, G., Iles‐Caven, Y., & Northstone, K. (2019). Associations between paracetamol (acetaminophen) intake between 18 and 32 weeks gestation and neurocognitive outcomes in the child: A longitudinal cohort study. *Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology*. doi: 10.1111/ppe.12582

BristolUni. (n.d.). Childhood behavior linked to taking paracetamol in pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-09/uob-cbl091219.php

Toda, K. (2017). Is acetaminophen safe in pregnancy? *Scandinavian Journal of Pain, 17*(1), 445–446. doi: 10.1016/j.sjpain.2017.09.007

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