In a recent study (JAMA Pediatr 2016 Aug 15; ) reasearchers looked at the pre-natal use of acetominophen and the incidence of psychological behaviors in children.
They found up to a 20% increase in conduct problems at 18 and 32 weeks, hyperactivity problems at 18 and 32 weeks and emotional symptoms at 32 weeks.
This needs further research however; such as the reason the mothers took the medication. Furthermore fever and infection, common reasons for taking acetaminophen, can produce epigenetic and brain changes, as shown in an animal study (Biol Psychiatry 2016 Aug 12.
This is a bit of a conundrum. Avoid medications whenever possible during pregnancy, and don't run to pills unnecessarily. However if your physician suggests taking acetaminophen is worthwhile for your fever you probably should take it!
No comments:
Post a Comment