Maternal use of acetaminophen (paracetamol) not associated with neurodevelopmental disorder risk in offspring

A recent analysis assessed the effects of paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, on pediatric neurodevelopment.

In a systematic review and meta-analysis published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Women’s Health, investigators used the MEDLINE, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov and Cochrane Library databases to identify 43 sibling-comparison studies examining the relationship between prenatal paracetamol use and subsequent autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and intellectual disability among offspring.

The investigators found no associations between paracetamol exposure and the risk of autism spectrum disorder, ADHD or intellectual disability — even among studies with a low risk of bias. The findings supported the safe use of paracetamol during pregnancy and aligned with current recommendations from major medical institutions.

Read more: The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Women’s Health

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