Does Acetaminophen Exposure In Utero Increase Risk for ADHD?

A large dataset analysis adjusted for multiple confounders indicates that acetaminophen use for ≥29 days during in pregnancy doubles the risk for ADHD in offspring.

Because anti-inflammatory medications are known to be harmful to the developing fetus, many pregnant women use acetaminophen for fever and pain relief. Recent research has also shown an increase in the risk for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in offspring from prenatal acetaminophen exposure. But it is unclear whether indications for acetaminophen use or parental ADHD explain these findings.

To determine whether acetaminophen use during pregnancy is associated with ADHD in offspring after adjusting for potential confounders, researchers compared data from a Norwegian registry of nearly 113,000 children born between 1999 and 2009 (including 2246 with ADHD) with data on maternal and paternal ADHD symptoms, prepregnancy acetamin…

Reviewing Author

Jenny Radesky, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMelissa & Doug Toys (Consultant and Board of Directors)

Grant/Research SupportNational Institute for Child Health and Development; National Institutes of Health

Jenny Radesky, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMelissa & Doug Toys (Consultant and Board of Directors)

Grant/Research SupportNational Institute for Child Health and Development; National Institutes of Health

Does Acetaminophen Exposure In Utero Increase Risk for ADHD?

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Reviewing Author