Pregnant women taking paracetamol risk a child with behavioral problems

One study suggests that women taking paracetamol during pregnancy may have children with behavioral problems.

Scientists have discovered a link between pregnant women using painkillers and their hyperactive children and having emotional issues.

Paracetamol is the most popular analgesic in the world and the only one considered safe to take during pregnancy. However, a growing body of research suggests that this could harm the development of children in the uterus, studies associating asthma, infertility, and autism.

In the latest research conducted by the University of Bristol, scientists examined data from 14,000 children aged six months to 11 years old.

One study has shown that paracetamol, thought to be safe during pregnancy, can lead to behavioral problems in newborns.

Using a questionnaire and school information from Bristol's "The Children of the 90s" study, researchers analyzed the results of memory, IQ, temperament and youth behavior tests. This result was compared to data showing the frequency with which their mother took paracetamol between 18 and 32 weeks of pregnancy.

The study found a "causal link" between taking paracetamol and behavioral problems in children, including hyperactivity and attention deficit disorder.

The effects were greatest when the children were three years old, but they faded when the youths finished primary school.

Boys appeared to be more likely than girls to have possible behavioral effects of the drug, reported the journal Pediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology.

The study has prompted new warnings for pregnant women to use only the lowest possible dose of paracetamol as soon as possible.

In the light of the new study, some doctors now advise pregnant women to avoid the drug or take the lowest dose possible.

Lead author of the study, Professor Jean Golding, said, "Our findings add to a series of findings regarding evidence of possible adverse effects of taking paracetamol during pregnancy, such as asthma or behavioral problems in children. This reinforces the advice that women should exercise caution when taking medication during pregnancy and seek medical attention if necessary.

Responding to the findings, Dr. James Dear of the University of Edinburgh said: "At present, in my opinion, women should only use paracetamol during pregnancy if they have it. clearly need. The lowest dose for the shortest time must be taken. & # 39; But scientists have added that there is evidence that maternal infections and inflammation can negatively affect the fetal brain. This means that it is possible that the reason for taking paracetamol – rather than the medication itself – is the cause of behavioral problems.

Andrew Whitelaw, professor emeritus of neonatal medicine in Bristol, said: "It is possible that in some women this is the reason for paracetamol, rather than the drug itself, which has affected the infant's brain."

Dr. Pat O. Brien, of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, said, "These results only demonstrate a link between the use of paracetamol and adverse effects.

"More research is needed to determine the causal link. According to current recommendations, paracetamol remains safe for the treatment of mild to moderate pain in women during pregnancy and breastfeeding. & # 39;