Expectant mothers can safely continue using paracetamol to manage pain and fever during pregnancy, the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has said.

The board, which is Kenya’s National Medicines Regulatory Authority, has reassured the public that paracetamol remains a recommended medicine when used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

In its statement dated October 2, 2025, the regulator noted that while some studies had suggested possible associations, there is no conclusive scientific evidence confirming the claims.

“The board wishes to address concerns regarding the use of paracetamol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy. It reassures the public that paracetamol remains a recommended medicine for the relief of pain and fever in pregnant women, provided it is taken as directed by a qualified healthcare professional,” read the PPB statement, in part.

Addressing safety concerns

The PPB moved to clarify concerns raised over the safety of the drug following reports suggesting possible links between paracetamol use in pregnancy and conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children.

The PPB further confirmed that its Pharmacovigilance Division has not received any reports linking the medicine to ASD or ADHD in Kenya. It added that the Division continues to monitor the safety of medicines used during pregnancy to safeguard the health of both mothers and children.

“Paracetamol is one of the most widely used medicines in Kenya and globally. While some studies have suggested possible links between its use during pregnancy and conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, there is no conclusive scientific evidence confirming these associations,” read the statement.

“The PPB’s Pharmacovigilance Division has not received any reports linking paracetamol use in pregnancy to ASD or ADHD. The Division continues to monitor the safety of medicines used during pregnancy to protect the health of mothers and children.”

Public guidelines

The board issued guidelines on the safe use of paracetamol during pregnancy. It advised that the medicine should only be taken when necessary, in the correct dose and duration, and under the prescription of a healthcare provider.

“Public Guidelines on the Use of Paracetamol in Pregnancy Use only when necessary – Paracetamol should be taken only when needed, at the correct dose and duration, and strictly under the prescription of a qualified healthcare provider.”

Pregnant women were urged to avoid self-medication and seek medical advice before using any medicine, including paracetamol. Healthcare professionals were also encouraged to provide counselling to expectant mothers on the safe and appropriate use of medicines.

“Avoid self-medication – Pregnant women should not take any medicine, including paracetamol, without the guidance of a qualified health professional. Seek professional counselling – Healthcare providers are encouraged to counsel pregnant women on the safe and appropriate use of paracetamol and other medicines during pregnancy.”

Reporting side effects

The PPB reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public health through continuous monitoring of the safety of medicines, including those used during pregnancy. It pledged to provide timely updates whenever necessary.

“The Board reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding public health through continuous monitoring of the safety of medicines, including those used during pregnancy, and will provide timely updates as necessary.”