PHARMACY peak bodies have joined the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and other medical experts in confirming that paracetamol is safe to take in pregnancy, off the back of US President Trump’s claims this week.

Trump linked the painkiller to autism, with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) set to issue warnings about the potential risks of taking it during pregnancy.

“In Australia, the TGA has reiterated that paracetamol remains Pregnancy Category A in Australia, meaning it is considered safe for use in pregnancy,” a Pharmacy Guild of Australia spokesperson told Pharmacy Daily.

“All healthcare professionals, including community pharmacists, should stay abreast of the latest information, guidance and advice from the TGA,” they added.

While some studies have reported a small association between autism and paracetamol, others have not, and there is no proof of causation.

However, there is evidence that high fever in pregnancy is linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes, including neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism.

AdPha Vice President Dr Kate O’Hara also referred to the TGA’s position that paracetamol remains a Pregnancy Category A medicine and is considered safe to use during pregnancy.

“AdPha members support all healthcare practitioners working to the highest standards of evidence,” she said.

PSA National President Assoc Prof Fei Sim said pharmacists, as medicine experts, “have a crucial role in addressing misinformation and disinformation”.

“We appreciate that pharmacists will likely be approached by the public for advice regarding the safety of paracetamol during pregnancy, [providing] an opportunity for pharmacists to engage in evidence-based counselling with our patients.” KB

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