Painkillers during pregnancy cause autism in the newborn

Painkillers during pregnancy cause autism in the newborn

New studies show that there is a significant connection between paracetamol and autism and ADHD. Autism is a brain disorder and the painkillers can affect pregnant women and their newborns.

Researchers collected the health data of 73,000 mother-baby pairs from Europe. The researchers from the University of Barcelona conducted this study taking into account the previous studies that supported the same conclusion. These experts discovered how acetaminophen affected unborn babies with autism more than those who were not exposed to this drug. The study found that 19% of the fetuses showed autism, while 21% had attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms as infants.

What is Acetaminophen medication?

The common name of this medication is acetaminophen and about 52 million people in the United States take acetaminophen. In addition, around 600 medications contain paracetamol, an over-the-counter drug, and a prescribed painkiller.

Research shows that about 46% to 56% of pregnant women consume acetaminophen. Doctors consider this drug to be very safe for both the fetus and the mother, but this study is very shocking. Now the question arises as to how doctors should treat a pregnant woman's fever or pain.

According to Jordi Sunyer, co-author of this study, “Paracetamol is a safe anti-inflammatory drug in pregnancy, but its side effects are alarming.” At the same time, she said that "paracetamol can protect a pregnant woman from other health risks related to fever. So women cannot stop taking this medication."

Some previous studies have shown that paracetamol can enter the unborn child's body through a wall known as the placenta, which is a protective barrier of cellular tissue that protects the fetus's circulatory system. However, once the drug enters the body of the fetus, it affects the circulation of hormones, resulting in poor development. Top research expert Silvia Alemany explained that the result of this study is relevant to previous studies.

A combination of previous and more recent studies on pregnant women show that painkillers such as acetaminophen can cause autism in newborns. Researchers say the drug enters the fetus' body through a thin wall and can cause autism at a young age. However, sometimes the disease occurs later in adulthood. At the same time, paracetamol is the only painkiller that doctors consider safe during pregnancy, so women cannot stop taking it. However, women should try to avoid medication during pregnancy. Autism has no cure; however, its symptoms can be reduced through treatments, including therapy. Certain support programs also help a child with autism.

Inspired by Humera Ehsan