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A recent study published in Nature Mental Health has raised concerns about the use of acetaminophen during pregnancy, linking fetal exposure to an increased risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. This finding challenges the long-held perception of acetaminophen as a safe pain reliever for pregnant women.
The research, which followed 307 women from 2006 to 2011, analyzed blood samples taken during pregnancy for acetaminophen biomarkers. The children of these women were then monitored for 8 to 10 years. The results revealed a significant difference in ADHD rates between children exposed to acetaminophen in the womb and those who were not.
Specifically, the study found that children whose mothers did not use acetaminophen during pregnancy had an ADHD rate of 9%. In contrast, children whose mothers did use the pain reliever had an ADHD rate of 18%. This indicates a doubling of the risk.
Furthermore, the presence of acetaminophen metabolites in maternal blood plasma was associated with a 3.15 times higher likelihood of an ADHD diagnosis in their children. Notably, the link was even stronger in daughters, with exposed daughters showing a 6.16 times greater likelihood of developing ADHD.
The study also highlighted the widespread use of acetaminophen during pregnancy, with previous research indicating that up to 70% of pregnant women use the drug to manage pain or fever. Given that acetaminophen is one of the few drugs considered safe for pregnancy by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), these new findings prompt a reconsideration of current medical recommendations.
Researchers emphasize the need for further investigation to determine if there are safe levels of acetaminophen use during pregnancy and if certain individuals are less susceptible to the associated risks. As more safety data becomes available, it is crucial that medical organizations and the FDA update their guidelines on acetaminophen use during pregnancy.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on a single study and should not be interpreted as definitive medical advice. Pregnant women should consult with their healthcare providers before making any changes to their medication regimen. Further research is necessary to confirm these findings and establish clear guidelines for acetaminophen use during pregnancy.
