Panadol, which contains paracetamol (acetaminophen), can generally be used during pregnancy but with caution. It is considered the safest medication for treating pain and fever in pregnant women when taken at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Pregnant women are advised to consult their healthcare provider before using it. Although some studies suggest possible risks with long-term or high-dose use of paracetamol during pregnancy, short-term use as recommended is unlikely to harm the fetus. Untreated pain or fever can pose risks to the unborn baby, so managing these symptoms properly is important. Paracetamol has not been shown to cause autism in children when used during pregnancy. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen are generally not recommended during pregnancy. In summary:
- Short-term, low-dose use of Panadol (paracetamol) is generally safe in pregnancy.
- Prolonged or high-dose use should be avoided unless advised by a healthcare professional.
- Pregnant women should speak with their doctor or pharmacist to ensure safe use.
- Managing pain and fever is important to protect both mother and baby.
This aligns with current guidance from health authorities and expert consensus as of 2025.
