Developmental Toxicity and Mechanisms of Acetaminophen Exposure during Pregnancy

doi:10.19803/j.1672-8629.20240815

Abstract

Abstract: Objective To investigate the developmental toxicity of prenatal acetaminophen (APAP) exposure and the potential mechanisms in order to provide references for safe clinical medication. Methods The associations between the use of APAP during pregnancy and such developmental outcomes as intrauterine growth restriction, developmental malformations and functional impairments in offspring, and between APAP and postnatal and adult-onset diseases involving the nervous system, urogenital system, respiratory system and immune system were discussed based on the latest literature. Results Medications with APAP during pregnancy might cause intrauterine fetal growth retardation, developmental malformations, organ dysfunctions, and increased susceptibility to neurological, genitourinary, and respiratory diseases in adult offspring. The potential mechanisms underlying developmental toxicity included cyclooxygenase inhibition, oxidative damage, endocrine disruption, and epigenetic dysregulation. Conclusion The rational use of APAP during pregnancy is crucial to maternal and fetal health.

Key words: Acetaminophen (APAP), Developmental Toxicity, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder

CLC Number:

R971
R994.11

MEI Haonan, ZHANG Ziyi, WANG Yuxi, WANG Hui, GUO Yu. Developmental Toxicity and Mechanisms of Acetaminophen Exposure during Pregnancy[J]. Chinese Journal of Pharmacovigilance, 2025, 22(6): 702-707.

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URL: https://zgywjj.magtechjournal.com/EN/10.19803/j.1672-8629.20240815

https://zgywjj.magtechjournal.com/EN/Y2025/V22/I6/702

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