Paracetamol in pregnancy, the subject of Trump controversy, debunked by a major study. What the specialists say
A large new study published shows that taking paracetamol during pregnancy is safe and does not increase the risk of autism, ADHD or other developmental disorders in children.
Paracetamol is good in pregnancy, according to a study Photo: Shuterstock
The conclusions come after years of intense debate and controversial statements, including from the political arena of the United States. The study was published in the prestigious journal The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynecology & Women's Health, writes the BBC.
The research looked at 43 of the most rigorous studies in existence, which included hundreds of thousands of pregnant women. An important part of the analysis was based on sibling comparisons – a considered method “gold standard”, because it eliminates the influence of genetic and environmental factors in the family.
The result is clear: there is no association between the use of paracetamol in pregnancy and the risk of autism, ADHD or intellectual disability in children.
“The message is reassuring – paracetamol remains a safe option for pregnant women when used as directed,” said Professor Asma Khalil, lead author of the study and specialist in maternal-fetal medicine at the University of London.
Where did the controversies start?
Discussions were reignited last year when US President Donald Trump claimed that paracetamol “it's not good” in pregnancy and urged women to “fighting hard” not to take it.
The statements were harshly criticized by the international medical community and created confusion among expectant mothers. US health officials later urged caution, although the FDA stressed that paracetamol remains the only drug approved to treat fever during pregnancy
Experts warn that avoiding treatment in case of fever or severe pain can be dangerous for both the mother and the fetus.
“An untreated high temperature in pregnancy can increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth or developmental problems”doctors warn.
Professor Ian Douglas, from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, believes the study is “well done” because it excluded low-quality research, in which the underlying diseases of the mothers were not taken into account.
For his part, Professor Jan Haavik, a neuroresearcher at the University of Bergen, says that the analysis provides “strong evidence” that paracetamol is not responsible for the increase in autism cases.
Paracetamol remains the first choice recommended for pregnant women for pain and fever, according to medical guidelines.
Experts hope this study will put an end to speculation and reduce unnecessary anxiety among expectant mothers.
