PAGB response to University of Copenhagen paracetamol and pregnancy study

New published research, carried out by the University of Copenhagen, has reported that using painkillers during pregnancy may reduce the masculinity of male offspring. The study was carried out on mice and not humans.

Donna Castle, PAGB Director of Communications, comments:

“We welcome any new research on over-the-counter medicines. However, the study findings resulted from tests on mice and more research would be needed to establish if the same effect applied to humans.

“The official NHS advice on paracetamol is that it can be used through all stages of pregnancy to reduce a high temperature (fever) and relieve pain. This is supported by a large body of evidence from over 50 years of paracetamol use in humans.

“In line with current guidelines, we advise that pregnant women use paracetamol at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. We would recommend that pregnant women should always speak to their GP, midwife or pharmacist before taking any medicine, including paracetamol. It’s also important to read the product information carefully and only use in accordance with the instructions.”