Is it Safe to Consume Acetaminophen During Pregnancy?
Acetaminophen, commonly known as Tylenol or paracetamol, is a widely used over-the-counter medication for pain relief and fever control. However, a growing body of research indicates a potential concern about its safety during pregnancy, particularly in relation to the increased risks of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children.
Recent rigorous studies, including a major meta-analytic review led by Mount Sinai, have found consistent evidence linking prenatal acetaminophen exposure with heightened risks of these neurodevelopmental disorders. Biological plausibility for this association is suggested by the fact that acetaminophen crosses the placental barrier and may induce oxidative stress, hormonal disruptions, and epigenetic changes that could interfere with fetal brain development.
Research involving over 100,000 participants worldwide and analyses of acetaminophen biomarkers in umbilical cord blood strengthen the evidence by showing dose-response relationships—higher fetal exposure correlates with increased ASD and ADHD risks. Some analyses suggest that prenatal acetaminophen exposure is associated with about a 20-30% increased risk of autism and ADHD, with risks possibly higher for prolonged or late-pregnancy use.
While these studies suggest a potential association, it's important to note that they do not prove direct causation. Confounding factors such as maternal health and lifestyle differences, severity of maternal illness prompting acetaminophen use, and short metabolic half-life of the drug complicate interpretation. Experts stress that pregnant individuals should not stop acetaminophen without medical advice, as untreated fever or pain also pose risks.
In light of these findings, researchers call for updated clinical guidelines to balance benefits and risks, advocate for cautious and time-limited acetaminophen use under professional supervision, and emphasize the need for safer analgesic alternatives and further research. There are ongoing lawsuits alleging failure to warn about these risks, reflecting heightened public awareness and concern.
Discussing the use of any medication during pregnancy with a healthcare provider is always recommended, especially for women with chronic conditions. If unsure about medications during pregnancy, it's recommended to discuss options with an Ob/Gyn. For some conditions, limited amounts of acetaminophen might be your safest bet for pain relief during pregnancy.
A recent 2024 study found that taking acetaminophen during pregnancy did not increase risks and showed a "noncausal association" between neurodevelopmental disorders and acetaminophen. Women should not feel guilty or feel like they're putting their child at risk when taking acetaminophen for pain relief during pregnancy. Other pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil®) and naproxen (Aleve®) aren't recommended during pregnancy as they may affect fetal development.
It's crucial to remember that every pregnancy is unique, and the best course of action depends on individual circumstances. If you're pregnant and looking for pain relief, acetaminophen is a safe choice according to Dr. Salena Zanotti, an Ob/Gyn. The recommended max dosage for adults while pregnant is 3,000 milligrams per day.
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center and does not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding your specific medical situation.
- The Cleveland Clinic study from 2024 found that taking acetaminophen during pregnancy did not increase risks and suggested a noncausal association between neurodevelopmental disorders and acetaminophen, providing a potential reassurance for pregnant women seeking pain relief.
- Despite the debated potential risks associated with prenatal acetaminophen exposure, it is notable that ongoing research, such as the Mount Sinai meta-analytic review, has linked prenatal acetaminophen use with increased risks of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), highlighting the importance of ongoing health-and-wellness and historical research to inform the safe use of medications during pregnancy.
