Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is one of the most widely used over-the-counter medications worldwide. However, a new study led by Harvard School of Public Health and Mount Sinai researchers has raised concerns about its safety during pregnancy. By analyzing more than 100,000 participants across 46 previous studies, scientists found that prenatal exposure to paracetamol may increase the risk of children developing neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The study, published in BMC Environmental Health, emphasized that higher-quality research consistently showed a stronger link between paracetamol use during pregnancy and autism or ADHD in offspring. Researchers evaluated medical records to identify when paracetamol was taken—during the first, second, third trimester, or throughout the entire pregnancy—and associated the findings with long-term health outcomes for children. Experts caution that even a small increase in risk could have significant public health implications, given how common paracetamol use is among expectant mothers worldwide.
Medical Experts Urge Caution, Not Panic
Despite the concerning findings, experts warn pregnant women not to abruptly stop using paracetamol without medical advice. Dr Diddier Prada, assistant professor of population health science at Mount Sinai Hospital and co-author of the study, explained that untreated pain or fever can also pose risks to both mother and child. Instead, healthcare providers should help expectant mothers evaluate the safest treatment options, considering non-drug alternatives when possible.
This is not the first time paracetamol’s safety has been questioned. A University of Nottingham study previously linked the drug to higher risks of gastrointestinal bleeding, chronic kidney disease, hypertension, and heart failure. While paracetamol remains one of the most accessible and trusted medications, mounting research suggests that cautious, limited use is especially important during pregnancy. For mothers-to-be, open communication with healthcare providers and careful evaluation of all available options are crucial to balancing pain relief with long-term child health.
