Blogging Heros
One of the most popular over-the-counter pain relievers is Tylenol. It comes in several formulations and is available in several countries. But do you know what the side effects of using it during pregnancy are? If you’re reading this, then it’s safe to assume that you suffer from aches and pains from time to time. Even though this might be the case for some, others might experience frequent bouts of pain due to joint injuries or muscle cramps due to strained muscles. Whatever your reason for taking Tylenol, there’s a higher risk of side effects associated with its use during pregnancy than at other times, as well as different risks depending on which formulation you choose to take. According to recent findings, taking Tylenol during pregnancy can cause the unborn child to develop autism. This side effect was not disclosed by the manufacturers. Parents can take action against the negligent manufacturer by filing a lawsuit. The process of a Tylenol autism class action lawsuit involves a group of individuals with similar claims against the manufacturer of the Tylenol brand of over-the-counter pain medication. These individuals, known as the “class,” band together to sue the company for alleged harm caused by the use of their product.
Let’s take a look at what these side effects are and which formulations you should avoid if you want to avoid them.
Common Side Effects of Using Tylenol During Pregnancy
There’s been a lot of research into the side effects that accompany the use of painkillers, especially during pregnancy. Most studies focus on the use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen, but there have been cases reported where the use of acetaminophen was linked to certain side effects as well. One of the most common side effects of taking this medication is a reduced supply of blood in the organs of the fetus, which is called “fetal anemia.” It’s not an issue that’s exclusive to pregnant women, though–the condition can occur in the third trimester of pregnancy in both moms and babies. Though the amount of blood in your baby’s body isn’t that significant, it can cause some problems. The baby might be born small or develop jaundice, a condition that causes the skin to look yellow.
Risky Side Effects of Using Tylenol During Pregnancy
As well as causing severe liver damage in high doses, acetaminophen can cause a range of other side effects when it’s ingested during pregnancy. Some of these effects are common to other forms of the medication too, while other effects are more specific to the use of Tylenol. Here are some of the side effects that have been reported when pregnant women have used this medication:
Preterm Delivery
Some research has suggested that taking this medication can increase the risk of premature delivery in pregnant women. Some studies have shown that women who take NSAIDs like acetaminophen during the first or second trimester of pregnancy are at a higher risk of delivering babies early. This can be a significant concern, especially if you’re hoping to get pregnant soon.
Risk of Overdose
Though rare, there’s a chance that you’ll accidentally take too much acetaminophen while pregnant. The fetus is particularly vulnerable to this risk, as the amount of medication needed to cause poisoning is significantly smaller than the dose needed by adults.
Autism in the Child
There have been some studies that suggest a possible association between the use of Tylenol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism in children. One study published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics in 2016 found that women who used Tylenol during pregnancy had a higher risk of having a child with autism compared to women who did not use the medication.
Alternatives to Tylenol during Pregnancy
If you are concerned about using Tylenol during pregnancy, there are some alternative options for pain relief. These include:
- Hot and cold compresses
- Exercise and physical therapy
- Massage and relaxation techniques
- Chiropractic care
- Acupuncture
It is important to note that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and aspirin, should be avoided during pregnancy as they have been associated with an increased risk of miscarriage and other pregnancy complications.
Painkillers can be a useful tool for those in need of quick and effective pain relief. But when you’re pregnant, it’s important to be mindful of the risks involved. Acetaminophen, the most widely-used form of pain reliever, is linked to dangerous side effects that can lead to premature delivery. Some women who are trying to get pregnant may choose to use acetaminophen during pregnancy to ease their aches and pains. But this can pose a serious risk to the fetus. If you’re pregnant and taking this medication, you should be especially careful and consult your health provider before taking any over-the-counter medication.
