Many women opt not to use any medications during pregnancy, but there are times when they're needed. Tylenol is recommended by the March of Dimes as a safe and effective medication to take during times of mild illness while pregnant, as long as the suggested dosing instructions are followed.
Not Associated With Congenital Abnormalities
Tylenol is considered a safe and effective pain medication during pregnancy when taken correctly. A Danish study published on PubMed.gov found that there was no link to acetaminophen use during pregnancy to an increase in congenital abnormalities after birth. Ask your health care before taking any medications during pregnancy.
May Not Be Safe When Taken With Another Medication
Tylenol is considered safe during pregnancy when taken in appropriate strengths and doses, and for a short period. Also known as acetaminophen, it's used in conjunction with many other medications to produce additional pain, cold and flu medications. Tylenol that's combined with another medication may not be safe and should not be taken unless discussed with your health care provider.
Possible Liver Damage if Overdose
Because Tylenol is metabolized in the liver, liver toxicity can occur when too much Tylenol is taken. Drugs.com reports only two cases of liver toxicity in mothers who overdosed on Tylenol late in pregnancy. Liver toxicity was not found in either the mother or infant in these cases. When Tylenol is taken by a healthy mother who has approved the medication with her health care provider, and takes the medication in the recommended doses--up to two tablets every four hours--Tylenol is considered safe for use during pregnancy with little to no effect on the fetus or pregnancy.
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