Barrie 
Health Canada is advising that acetaminophen remains safe for use during pregnancy when taken as directed, even as U.S. regulators raise concerns about possible links to neurodevelopmental disorders.
Credit: Erik Mclean/ Unsplash
The update comes after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began the process of changing product labels to reflect studies suggesting an association between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and conditions such as autism and ADHD in children. The FDA also issued a letter to American physicians urging caution, particularly with long-term use throughout pregnancy.
Health Canada says there is no conclusive evidence that acetaminophen causes autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders. The agency emphasized that the medication has been safely used by millions of Canadians for decades, including during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The regulator advises expectant mothers to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Pregnant women are also encouraged to consult health-care providers if pain persists beyond five days or if the fever lasts longer than three.
Health Canada warns that exceeding recommended doses can result in serious liver damage. All over-the-counter acetaminophen products in Canada already carry clear labels on safe use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well as liver risks.
The agency added that untreated pain and fever in pregnancy can pose risks to the unborn child, making acetaminophen the safest option compared with aspirin or ibuprofen, which are known to cause harm during pregnancy.
Health Canada stated that it continues to closely monitor new research and will update its recommendations if new evidence emerges.
