Large New Zealand trial finds infant acetaminophen and ibuprofen pose no eczema or bronchiolitis risk

In a landmark open-label trial across New Zealand, almost 4,000 babies were monitored from birth, with half receiving acetaminophen and the other half ibuprofen as required for fever or pain during their first year. Parents reported occurrences of eczema, asthma symptoms and bronchiolitis, and researchers also examined prescription and hospital records. The study found eczema in 16% of the acetaminophen cohort versus 15% of the ibuprofen cohort, and bronchiolitis affected about five percent of children in each group, with no statistically meaningful differences.

Serious side effects were rare and not attributed to either medication. Lead investigator Professor Stuart Dalziel described the results as strong reassurance for parents and clinicians. The trial, part of the PIPPA Tamariki project, will continue tracking participants until age six to assess longer-term health outcomes.