A study in Nature Mental Health links paracetamol use during pregnancy to a higher risk of ADHD in children. The research tracked acetaminophen levels
A recent study published in the journal Nature Mental Health has raised concerns about the use of paracetamol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy, linking it to an increased risk of ADHD in children. The research, which analyzed data from over 170,000 mother-child pairs across five countries, found that children exposed to paracetamol in the womb were more likely to exhibit ADHD-like behaviors. The study suggests that paracetamol might affect brain development, particularly the prefrontal cortex, which is crucial for attention and impulse control. However, experts caution that while there is an association, it does not prove causation, and paracetamol remains a recommended pain relief option when used as directed. The findings underscore the need for further research to understand the long-term effects of prenatal paracetamol exposure and to explore safer alternatives for pain management during pregnancy.
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