Paracetamol Use in Pregnancy Linked to Autism Risk: Study

New Delhi, Aug 15 (PTI): Recent research suggests a potential link between the use of paracetamol during pregnancy and an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children, such as autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Paracetamol, also known by its alternative name 'acetaminophen', is commonly available over-the-counter and regarded as safe for managing symptoms like headaches, fever, and pain during pregnancy.

Scientists from numerous institutions, including the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in the United States, reviewed 46 pre-existing studies involving more than 100,000 participants from different countries. Their findings, published in the journal BioMed Central, indicate a correlation between prenatal exposure to acetaminophen and elevated risks of autism and ADHD, particularly in higher-quality studies, according to Diddier Prada, an assistant professor at the Icahn School.

"Given the widespread use of this medication, even a small increase in risk could have major public health implications,” Prada pointed out.

The research delved into biological mechanisms potentially responsible for the apparent link, citing that paracetamol can cross the placental barrier. It is suggested that this may induce oxidative stress, disrupt hormones, and lead to epigenetic changes that affect fetal brain development.

The increasing global incidence of autism and ADHD heightens the importance of these findings for public health policies, clinical guidelines, and patient education. While the study does not conclusively prove that paracetamol causes neurodevelopmental disorders, it does strengthen the concern around its usage during pregnancy. Researchers recommended that pregnant women use paracetamol cautiously and under medical supervision, while calling for further studies to validate their findings.