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In utero paracetamol exposure linked to neurocognitive outcomes

A new study published in the journal Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology suggests that the use of paracetamol during pregnancy may be associated with adverse behavioural outcomes in the offspring.

Researchers at the University of Bristol used a questionnaire and school data from Bristol's Children of the 90s study to examine 14000 children. Use of paracetamol 'sometimes' during pregnancy, and more so during the previous three months was reported by 43 per cent of women. The children were assessed based on results of memory, IQ and pre-school development tests, temperament and behaviour measures.

The findings showed an association between maternal paracetamol use and hyperactivity, attention problems, and other difficult behaviours with young children, that were not accounted for by social factors and the indications for which paracetamol was given. The association did not hold true by the time the children reached the end of primary school. Boys seemed to have a greater susceptibility than girls to the potential behavioural effects of the drug.

Professor Jean Golding, the study leader, said: "Our findings add to a series of results concerning evidence of the possible adverse effects of taking paracetamol during pregnancy such as issues with asthma or behaviour in the offspring. It reinforces the advice that women should be cautious when taking medication during pregnancy and to seek medical advice where necessary."


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