Can I take acetaminophen if I am pregnant?
Although it is generally safe to take acetaminophen, before taking any medication during pregnancy, you should consult with the doctor first.
Acetaminophen is used to treat pain and fever, and can be purchased without a prescription.
Paracetamol is sold alone and in combination with other medications such as cold and flu. It is important to make sure that the other medicines with which paracetamol is combined can be taken during pregnancy.
Paracetamol has been used as a first analgesic option for pregnant women without evident harmful effects in the development of the baby.
But since it can be said that there is no medication that is completely safe during pregnancy, in general, it is recommended that during pregnancy, the lowest necessary doses of paracetamol are used and only for the necessary time. paracetamol-in-pregnancy
Only the dose and the time needed
Prolonged use of paracetamol (or acetaminophen) during pregnancy increases the risk of developmental problems in the fetus.
The results of a new study show that children of women took acetaminophen during pregnancy for 4 weeks or more were 70% more likely at 3 years of age to have motor and communication problems, as well as problematic behaviors.
Despite these data, note that the occasional use of paracetamol does not seem to be harmful to the fetus.
Although more research is needed to corroborate the possible cause-effect relationship between prolonged use of paracetamol and fetal development problems, the results of this study highlight the need for better control of the use of analgesics during pregnancy.
