When a woman's pregnant, she automatically becomes responsible for two lives: hers and her baby's. This is why whatever food and medication she takes, it's a must that it won't risk the other life or cause complications for the developing human inside her womb .
International Business Times reported a recently published study about acetaminophen, a common medication known as Tylenol and widely taken by pregnant women who have fever. It is generally considered safe for pregnant women to take but the study discovered that it may lead to behavioral problems for the child in the long run.
Acetaminophen use during pregnancy (18th and 32nd week) and post-pregnancy (first five years of children) of 7,796 mothers were analyzed by the group of researchers. The moms were then asked to answer a questionnaire once their children turned seven.
Out of the 53 percent of women who used acetaminophen at 18 weeks, 42 percent and 31 percent were more likely to notice hyperactivity and behavioral problems in their children than those who reported they did not use the medication. Using the drug for 32 weeks even showed higher chances of children's exposure to behavioral difficulties by 46 percent.
As per ABC News, the study's lead author, Dr. Evie Stergiakouli says pregnant women should still use acetaminophen for fever or pain treatment. The risks are much higher than behavioral changes in their children if they won't take the prescribed medication.
As for other users who have never been pregnant before, acetaminophen also displays other side effects. According to Drugs.com, acetaminophen can result to difficulty in breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat.
Do you think the study provided sufficient evidence to prove that acetaminophen may cause behavioral problems for the child? Sound off your thoughts in the Comments section and follow Parent Herald for more news and updates.
