Study Finds No Link Between Acetaminophen use During Pregnancy and Autism, ADHD
LONDON - A comprehensive review of existing research indicates that acetaminophen use during pregnancy is not associated with an increased risk of autism or ADHD in children, contradicting recent claims made by former President Donald Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The findings, led by University of Liverpool Professor Shakila Thangaratinam, suggest previously reported associations were likely due to shared genetic and environmental factors within families.
“Our findings should help healthcare professionals give evidence-based advice to women, and reassure mothers about the use of paracetamol during pregnancy if indicated,” said Thangaratinam.
The review,published recently,found that when studies properly accounted for family-related factors – such as parental mental health or lifestyle - any apparent connection between acetaminophen and developmental disorders disappeared or was significantly reduced. Researchers noted only two studies had adequately adjusted for these factors.
The findings come as Trump has urged pregnant women to avoid acetaminophen, also known as Tylenol, citing a potential link to autism, despite a lack of new evidence. Acetaminophen has long been considered the safest pain medication for use during pregnancy.
both the World Health Institution and the European union have refuted trumps assertions. The FDA has also stated that “a causal relationship has not been established.” Medical organizations, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, continue to support acetaminophen as safe for pregnant women.
However,Trump and Kennedy Jr. announced last month that the FDA would begin updating the label on acetaminophen products to notify physicians of a potential association with increased autism risk. Kenvue, the maker of Tylenol, has since called on the FDA to reconsider this proposed label change, noting the current label already advises pregnant or breastfeeding individuals to consult a healthcare professional before use.
