Public Advisory: Acetaminophen is Safe to Use During Pregnancy, Unlike Ibuprofen or Naproxen

At Centrum Pharmacy, your safety matters. Recent comments by the President of the United States suggesting a link between acetaminophen (Tylenol) use during pregnancy and autism have caused understandable concern. However, these claims are not supported by scientific evidence.

Health Canada and leading medical experts worldwide continue to recommend acetaminophen as the safest option for pain and fever in pregnancy when used as directed.

The Facts on Acetaminophen

• Health Canada confirms there is no conclusive evidence that acetaminophen, when used appropriately, causes autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders.
• Acetaminophen has been used safely by millions of pregnant and breastfeeding women for decades.
• It remains the first-line treatment for pain and fever in pregnancy.
• Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed.

Why Not Advil or Aleve?

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) are NSAIDs, and they are not recommended during pregnancy — especially in the first and third trimesters:

• First trimester risks:
  • Possible increased risk of miscarriage.
  • Some studies suggest a small link to certain birth defects (heart and abdominal wall defects).
• Third trimester risks:
  • Can cause premature closure of the ductus arteriosus, a vital blood vessel in the baby’s heart.
  • Can reduce the baby’s kidney function, leading to low amniotic fluid (oligohydramnios).
  • May increase complications during delivery, such as excess bleeding or delayed labour.

Because of these well-documented risks, acetaminophen is the safer and recommended option during pregnancy.

Why Treating Pain and Fever Matters

Leaving pain or fever untreated in pregnancy can harm both mother and baby. For example:

• High fever may increase the risk of pregnancy complications and developmental concerns for the baby.
• Uncontrolled pain can raise stress levels, affect sleep, and impact maternal health.

Acetaminophen, when used as directed, provides safe relief without these risks.

Safe Use Guidelines

• Do not exceed the recommended dose listed on the label.
• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary time.
• Contact your healthcare provider if:
  • Pain lasts more than 5 days, or
  • Fever lasts more than 3 days.

Centrum Pharmacy’s Advice

• Continue to use acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain or fever during pregnancy, as directed.
• Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), especially in the first and third trimesters.
• Speak with your pharmacist or doctor before starting any new medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

What Health Canada Is Doing

Health Canada carefully monitors acetaminophen and all medications for safety. If credible new evidence emerges, labels and recommendations will be updated immediately. At this time, acetaminophen remains the recommended and safest treatment for pain and fever in pregnancy.

Takeaway: Pregnant women should avoid Advil and Aleve — especially in the first and third trimesters — and continue to use acetaminophen safely as directed. Your pharmacists at Centrum Pharmacy are here to support you with trusted advice.

Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.