Taking paracetamol while pregnant is safe and there's no evidence it raises the risk of autism, ADHD and developmental issues in children, say experts behind a major new review.
Pregnant women should feel reassured by the findings, they say, which contradict controversial claims from US President Donald Trump last year that paracetamol is no good and pregnant women should fight like hell not to take it.
His views were criticised at the time by medical organisations worldwide. Experts say this latest review published in The Lancet journal is rigorous and should end the debate over its safety.
But US health officials maintain that many experts have expressed concern over its use during pregnancy.
The US President shocked many doctors worldwide when he and his administration claimed paracetamol, or a branded version called Tylenol, which is seen as the go-to painkiller for pregnant women, could be linked to autism in children if taken during pregnancy. These claims led to confusion among women and concern among health experts, prompting this new research.
Published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Women's Health, it reviewed 43 of the most robust studies into paracetamol use during pregnancy, involving hundreds of thousands of women, particularly those comparing pregnancies where the mother had taken the drug to those where she hadn't.
The researchers claim that using these high-quality studies of siblings means they can dismiss other factors such as different genes and family environments, allowing their review to be considered gold-standard.
The study found no links between paracetamol and autism, according to lead study author and consultant obstetrician Professor Asma Khalil. She stated, The message is clear – paracetamol remains a safe option during pregnancy when taken as guided. This is in line with guidance from major medical organisations regarding the safety of the common painkiller.
Health advice warns that not taking paracetamol to manage high temperatures or relieve pain can harm the baby, increasing risks of miscarriage or developmental problems.
Many medical experts have welcomed the findings of the study, saying it will help reduce worry among women. Although US health officials remain skeptical, the study is viewed as robust and conclusive in demonstrating the safety of paracetamol during pregnancy.
