Monday, January 16, 2017

Concerns with Acetaminophen Use in Pregnancy

An article published in the October 2016 issue of JAMA Pediatrics looked at acetaminophen (Tylenol) use in pregnancy and its impact on children's behaviour later in life.  The study led by Stergiakouli et al gathered data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children which was made up of 7796 mothers and their children.  Acetaminophen use at 18 and 32 weeks of pregnancy was looked at and children's behaviour at 7 years of age was assessed through the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire.  Acetaminophen use at both 18 and 32 weeks was associated with higher odds of the child having behaviour concerns and hyperactivity symptoms.  And acetaminophen use at 32 weeks was also associated with higher odds of the child having emotional concerns.  This research brings up important information around pain management in pregnancy and the importance of exploring other forms of support that do not have the potential to place long term stress on children's development.  

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