Researchers at the University of Aberdeen in the UK analysed data from more than 151,000 pregnancies over 30 years. The team looked at medical notes for non-prescribed maternal consumption of five common painkillers, paracetamol, aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), diclofenac, naproxen, and ibuprofen, either as single compounds or in combinations
Among mothers who took painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen during pregnancy, the risk of preterm delivery before 37 weeks was 50 per cent more likely, while the risk of stillbirth was 33 per cent. Other risks of using painkillers include neural tube defects (64 per cent more likely); admission to a neonatal unit (57 per cent more likely); neonatal death (56 per cent more likely);and birthweight under 2.5 kg (28 per cent more likely), among others, revealed the study published in BMJ Open.
"It should be reinforced that paracetamol in combination with NSAIDs is associated with a higher risk and pregnant women should always consult their doctor or midwife before taking any over-the-counter drugs. We would encourage a strong reinforcement of the official advice for pregnant women," said Aikaterini Zafeiri from the University. Between 30 per cent and 80 per cent of women globally use non-prescription painkillers in pregnancy to relieve pain for common pregnancy symptoms such as flu, fever and inflammatory or rheumatological conditions. However, current evidence regarding the safety of use during pregnancy varies widely, with some drugs considered safe and others not.