Consumption of acetaminophen during pregnancy: a survey on knowledge, attitudes and practices of Lebanese women

Abstract

Objectives Use of APAP during pregnancy is safe however certain practices have been related to the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring. Therefore, the present study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of women towards the use of APAP during pregnancy and associated factors. Methods This cross-sectional study was carried out between May 15 and August 31, 2020, among pregnant Lebanese women and those who gave birth in the last 12 months. Data collection was performed through an online questionnaire. KAP were described and a knowledge score was created in order to assess factors related to the score in a multivariable linear model. Results Out of 305 participants, 72.8% had marginal knowledge about the use of APAP during pregnancy. Actually, more than 50% was unable to differentiate between APAP and other pain medications, to determine the maximum recommended daily dose and the minimum time to wait between doses and to specify the potential effects of APAP on both mother and unborn child. A higher level of education was associated with a higher knowledge (β = 2.32, 95%CI=[0.91; 3.73]; p = 0.001). Moreover, women had positive attitudes towards APAP with a perceived risk of low toxicity. Indeed, 70.5% of women used APAP at least once during their pregnancy, of which 63.7% used it safely. Women with higher knowledge, having at least five somatic symptoms and a low socioeconomic level tended to be more APAP users (p < 0.05). Conclusions for practice Health professionals have the responsibility to give adequate and personalized advice to women regarding their medicines.