RCGP response to research on safety of Paracetamol use in pregnancy

Responding to research published in the Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Women’s Health, reaffirming that paracetamol is safe to use during pregnancy when taken as recommended and stresses the importance of evidence-based medical advice, Professor Victoria Tzortziou-Brown, Chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners, said:  

“It’s good to see this new research, which adds to the body of already-robust evidence showing that paracetamol is safe to use during pregnancy when taken as recommended. Our advice to patients has not changed; pregnant women should feel confident taking paracetamol when they need it and should speak to a healthcare professional if they have any concerns.  

“It’s vital that people feel they can trust the information they are given by doctors and other healthcare professionals. When that trust is undermined by claims made without a sound evidence base, particularly when amplified by influential voices, it risks causing unnecessary anxiety and harm. Evidence-based medical advice exists to protect patients, and it is crucial that it is not drowned out by misinformation.”

Further information

RCGP press office: 0203 188 7659
press@rcgp.org.uk

Notes to editors

The Royal College of General Practitioners is a network of more than 54,000 family doctors working to improve care for patients. We work to encourage and maintain the highest standards of general medical practice and act as the voice of GPs on education, training, research and clinical standards.