Research shows how paracetamol causes infertility

Experts have warned that a common painkiller could impair a man’s fertility. Couples where man has ‘high levels of drug in his system are 35% less likely to conceive’.

New research suggests that paracetamol, which is also known as acetaminophen and sold under the brand name Tylenol in the United States (U.S.) and Panadol in the United Kingdom (U.K.), has been linked to infertility.

The findings are published online in Human Reproduction but was first reported by DailyMailUK Online.

Couples, where the male partner had high levels of the drug in his urine took longer to conceive, according to scientists at the National Institutes of Health.

That was compared to men who had lower levels of the compound in their system.

Paracetamol is a non-prescription drug widely used as a pain reliever and to reduce fever.

It is also one of the compounds produced when the body breaks down aniline, a chemical used to make rubber, pesticides, and coloring agents used in food, cosmetics and clothing.

Dr. Melissa Smarr, the study’s first author, from United States (NIH’s) Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, said: “At this point, our findings need to be corroborated by future research, and there is no cause for alarm.’

Men take note!