Paracetamol and Pregnancy

Patients should be reminded and reassured that there is no evidence that taking paracetamol during pregnancy causes autism in children. Paracetamol is recommended as the first-choice pain reliever for pregnant women, used at the lowest dose and for the shortest duration. It also acts as an antipyretic and is therefore used to treat fever.

Advice for patients & healthcare professionals:

·         there is no evidence that taking paracetamol during pregnancy causes autism in children

·         pregnant women should be advised to continue to follow existing NHS guidance and speak to their healthcare professional if they have questions about any medication during pregnancy

·         untreated pain and fever can pose risks to the unborn baby, so it is important that patients continue to manage these symptoms with the recommended treatment. If pain or fever does not resolve, patients are advised to seek advice from their healthcare professional

·         patients should not swap to alternatives such as ibuprofen. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, are generally not recommended during pregnancy

·         the MHRA regularly reviews the safety of paracetamol including during pregnancy to ensure that the benefits to the patient and unborn baby outweigh any risks

·         recent existing studies do not show a causal association between paracetamol use during pregnancy and autism. There are many potential contributing factors in the development of autism, including but not limited to concomitant diseases and family inheritance

·         members of the public and healthcare professionals are encouraged to report any suspected side effects from medicines, including paracetamol, to the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme

Paracetamol and pregnancy – reminder that taking paracetamol during pregnancy remains safe – GOV.UK