Taking paracetamol during pregnancy, one of the most common drugs used for fever and pain, according to new research, can increase the risk of some neurodeological disorders in newborns, including autism and ADHD (meditation-thorns/hypercarctivity disorder).

Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen globally and sold under popular brands such as Crocin or Dolo, is used by more than half of the worldwide pregnant women worldwide. It has long been considered safe than other pain relievers, but scientists are now questioning this notion.

What was the study found

Researchers at the University of Massachusetts, Harvard University, and Institute for Health Equity Research reviewed the decades of scientific evidence to understand the link between the use of acetaminophen during pregnancy and child development.

In a study published in environmental health, he examined 46 studies and found that 27 studies reported a link among conditions such as the use of prenatal paracetamol and other neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD).

While no connection was found in 9 studies, 4 studies suggested a protective effect, although they were less reliable.

Importantly, strong, high-quality studies were more likely to show a positive link, strengthening anxiety.

What are these disorders?

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A developmental condition that affects social interaction, communication and behavior. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.
• ADHD (Meditation-Ghata/Extreme Activation Disorder): A condition where children can concentrate, control impulses, or still live.
• Neurodevelopmental Disorder (NDD): A comprehensive group of circumstances that affects how the brain grows and functions, leading to learning, behavior or communication difficulties.

Why does it matter

Conclusions are worrying because paracetamol usually recommend the first drug doctor during pregnancy when a woman has fever, headache or body pain. Unlike strong drugs such as ibuprofen or aspirin, which are usually avoided in pregnancy, paracetamol is considered a “safe” option for decades.

Researchers wrote, “Our analysis supports the evidence with a relationship between acetaminophen exposure and increasing incidence of neurodevaltate disorder.

Should pregnant women be worried?

While conclusions do not say that women should never take paracetamol, but caution is needed. Untreated fever or severe pain in pregnancy can also harm both mother and child, so there should be a balance.

• Use paracetamol only when it is absolutely necessary.
• Take the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.
• Always consult a doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy, even normal over-the-counter.

More research requires how strong the link is to confirm, but pregnant women should be cautious and avoid self-healing.

The safest advice: don’t panic, but always check with your doctor before arriving for that crocin.