Acetaminophen doesn’t increase risks in pregnancy: SOGC
Acetaminophen does not increase risks in pregnancy, Oak Valley Health obstetricians are advising in consultation with the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC).
“Given the recent news coverage regarding acetaminophen use in pregnancy and administering the medication to babies and young children, we want to provide clarity on what is currently known,” Oak Valley Health says. “Our goal is to support families and the community with clear, evidence-based information they can trust.”
Also, in consultation with the SOGC, Oak Valley Health obstetricians say the association between in utero acetaminophen exposure and neurological outcomes, such as autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is a longstanding controversy, not a new finding. “We underscore there is an association only,” they say.
Additionally, there is controversary on the quality of the studies, including control of external variables that may also be influencing association with neurological conditions. Critical reviews of these studies by the SOGC concluded the evidence for causality is “weak” and that the results of the studies claiming a causal link “should not alter current clinical recommendations.”
Recent findings provide further support that acetaminophen does not increase risks in pregnancy. The SOGC says the use of acetaminophen remains the safest and most effective first-line therapeutic option for treating fever and pain in pregnancy when medically indicated, at recommended doses for the shortest duration required, with no safer alternatives identified.
Untreated fever in pregnancy can cause serious complications, including miscarriage, fetal organ malformations, cardiovascular problems and has been linked to ASD. Untreated pain may contribute to depression, anxiety and high blood pressure, all of which negatively impact pregnancy outcomes. “Access to pain management is a human right; pregnant women should not be denied or deterred from safe and effective treatment,” Oak Valley Health says.
Babies and children can safely take acetaminophen and it is “imperative” that fever management be prioritized for newborns. Fever in babies under 30 days requires immediate medical follow-up. Fever in babies under three months requires timely follow-up. Acetaminophen treats the symptom – the fever – but not the underlying cause, which must always be investigated by a medical professional. Acetaminophen dose in children is based on their weight and parents must follow the package instructions to prevent accidental overdose and Tylenol toxicity, Oak Valley Health adds.
“Clear, consistent guidance helps reassure pregnant people and parents that acetaminophen is safe when used as directed and ensures they know when medical follow-up is needed,” it says. “Always speak to your health-care provider if you have any concerns.”