Could the use of paracetamol in late pregnancy and early childhood increase the risk of subsequently acquiring childhood asthma and allergic disorders as well as increasing the risk for autism in susceptible individuals?

Similarities in features of autism and asthma and a possible link to acetaminophen use
Kevin G. Becker of Gene Expression and Genomics Unit, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore and Stephen T. Schultz of the Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago

Research Summary
Autism and autism spectrum disorders are enigmatic conditions that have their origins in the interaction of genes and environmental factors. In this hypothesis, genes statistically associated with autism are emphasized to be important in inflammation and in innate immune pathways, including pathways for susceptibility to asthma. The role of acetaminophen (paracetamol) in an increased risk for asthma is described and a possible similar link to an increased risk for autism is suggested.

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For further comment and suggestions ast alternative methods of pain control – Gut buddies blog

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First Published in August 2009

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