Is Panadol Safe in Pregnancy? Here’s What Singapore Mothers Should Know

Eng Loy Tan
Sep 24
2 min read

Recently, international headlines suggested that taking Tylenol / acetoaminophen (commonly known as Panadol or paracetamol in Singapore) during pregnancy may be linked to autism or ADHD in children. Understandably, many expectant mothers are worried. Let’s take a closer look at what the science actually says.

Panadol (Paracetamol) and Pregnancy: What Studies Say

Some large-scale observational studies have reported an association between paracetamol use during pregnancy and a slightly higher risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

But here’s the key point:

Association does not mean causation.

Association vs Causation: The Ice Cream & Sunburn Analogy

Think of it this way:

In summer, people eat more ice cream.
In summer, more people also get sunburn.
But ice cream doesn’t cause sunburn — the real factor is the hot weather.

The same principle applies here. Just because paracetamol use and autism sometimes appear together in studies, it does not prove that one directly causes the other.

Why the Evidence on Panadol and Autism Is Inconclusive

Different studies have shown different results.
Many other factors influence a child’s development: genetics, environment, and even untreated illnesses during pregnancy.
Observational studies can show patterns, but they cannot prove cause and effect.

Why Pain and Fever Relief Still Matters During Pregnancy

It is important to remember that untreated pain or fever during pregnancy also carries risks.

High fever, for example, can itself be harmful to both mother and baby.
Denying women appropriate pain relief can cause unnecessary stress, which is not ideal during pregnancy.

That is why, in Singapore and many other countries, paracetamol remains the first-line, safest option for managing pain or fever in pregnancy — when taken at the correct dose and only when necessary.

Safe Use of Panadol in Pregnancy: Practical Tips for Mothers in Singapore

Use paracetamol only if you really need it — avoid unnecessary medication.
Follow the correct dosage as advised on the packaging or by your doctor.
Don’t combine multiple medications unless recommended by your healthcare provider.
When in doubt, ask your obstetrician or doctor before taking any medication.