Is Paracetamol Safe in Pregnancy? New Study Raises Alarm

Paracetamol use in pregnancy has always been seen as a safe option for relieving common discomforts like fever, body aches, or headaches. However, a new large-scale analysis has raised concerns that frequent or prolonged use might not be as harmless as once believed. The study suggests that babies exposed to paracetamol in the womb could face a slightly higher risk of developing neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

What Researchers Discovered

The investigation, led by scientists at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in the US, reviewed data from 46 studies involving over 100,000 mothers and children worldwide. Results published in BioMed Central showed that stronger, better-designed studies were more likely to find a connection between paracetamol use in pregnancy and later developmental concerns in children.

Lead researcher Dr. Diddier Prada explained that because paracetamol is so widely used, even a small increase in risk could have a big impact on public health.

How Paracetamol Might Affect the Baby

Researchers also explored possible biological reasons for the link. They noted that paracetamol can cross the placenta and reach the developing fetus. Once inside, it may:

Interfere with hormone balance
Oxidative stress causes damage to cells
Trigger epigenetic changes, meaning it can alter how certain genes work without changing the DNA itself

All these effects could potentially influence how the baby’s brain grows and develops.

Why the Findings Are Important

With diagnoses of autism and ADHD rising around the world, these findings are important for both families and healthcare providers. Since paracetamol is one of the most commonly used pain and fever medications during pregnancy, any potential risk, even if small, deserves careful consideration.

What Pregnant Women Should Know

The study does not prove that paracetamol directly causes autism or ADHD. Instead, it highlights a concerning link that requires further research. Until more is known, experts suggest that pregnant women should:

Use paracetamol only when truly needed
Always check with your doctor before using it regularly

Conclusion

Paracetamol is still considered one of the safer medicines available for pregnant women, but the new research indicates that paracetamol use in pregnancy should be more cautious and limited. Medical guidance is key, and unnecessary use should be avoided. More studies are needed, but awareness now can help expectant mothers make safer decisions for their babies’ health.

Source: Inputs from various media Sources

Priya Bairagi

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I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.