Common pain reliever during pregnancy linked to children’s ADHD risk
A recent study published in the journal Nature Mental Health has shed light on a potential link between maternal acetaminophen use during pregnancy and an increased risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. Lead author Brennan Baker, a researcher at Seattle Children’s Research Institute, revealed that children whose mothers took acetaminophen during pregnancy were three times more likely to develop ADHD compared to those with no exposure.
The study involved 307 Black women who had blood samples taken during their second trimester of pregnancy to test for markers of acetaminophen. Placenta samples were also collected post-delivery to assess inflammation levels in those exposed to the medication. Researchers followed up with the children at 8 to 10 years of age to determine ADHD diagnoses and found a significant association between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and the disorder.
DNA changes related to immune system pathways were observed in the placentas of mothers who took acetaminophen, further supporting the link between inflammation and ADHD development in children. Dr. Ryan Sultan, an attending physician at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, emphasized the importance of understanding modifiable prenatal risk factors to prevent neurodevelopmental disorders.
While the study highlights the potential risks associated with acetaminophen use during pregnancy, experts caution against completely avoiding the medication. Dr. Sultan advises using acetaminophen sparingly and only when medically necessary during pregnancy. It is essential for pregnant women to consult with healthcare providers before taking any medications to ensure the safety of both mother and child.
Although conflicting studies exist on the topic, the recent findings add to the growing body of evidence suggesting a potential link between acetaminophen exposure during pregnancy and adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in children. However, the study’s limitations, such as sample size and study design, prevent definitive conclusions on causality.
ADHD is a common mental health condition in childhood, affecting approximately 1 in 9 kids in the United States. Given the prevalence of acetaminophen use during pregnancy, further research is needed to fully understand the potential risks and benefits associated with the medication. The study was partially funded by the National Institutes of Health, and manufacturers of medications containing acetaminophen were contacted for comment on the findings. For more health-related articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.
