According to a new review published recently, researchers found no significant link between the use of paracetamol—also referred to as acetaminophen—during pregnancy and the risk of autism or ADHD in children. This research comes in light of warnings made by former President Donald Trump, who suggested that taking Tylenol while pregnant could lead to autism, a claim that lacks scientific backing.
Conducted by a team from the University of Liverpool, the study analyzed nine systematic reviews encompassing 40 observational studies focused on the effects of paracetamol on neurodevelopmental outcomes in children. The consensus was that the quality of the evidence connecting paracetamol use in pregnancy to neurodevelopmental disorders was largely inadequate.
The lead researcher from the University of Liverpool, Shakira Thangaratinam, indicated that their findings suggest no clear association exists between paracetamol use during pregnancy and a child’s subsequent diagnosis of autism or ADHD. This information could be crucial for healthcare providers when advising expectant mothers about the use of paracetamol.
Interestingly, the review highlighted that previous observed associations may have been impacted by genetic and environmental factors within families, such as parenting styles and mental health. The authors pointed out that only two studies successfully adjusted for these familial influences, resulting in diminished or absent links between acetaminophen use and developmental disorders.
While the researchers call for further rigorous studies, they emphasized that the existing data does not support the notion that paracetamol is harmful when taken during pregnancy.
Trump’s Comments on Acetaminophen Use
Former President Trump previously advised pregnant women against taking acetaminophen, despite the lack of new evidence substantiating the claim that it could directly cause autism. Acetaminophen remains one of the most frequently used pain relievers globally, often recommended due to its relative safety profile for pregnant women.
The World Health Organization and the European Union have dismissed Trump’s allegations regarding the drug causing conditions like autism and ADHD. Similarly, the FDA has publicly stated that a causal relationship has yet to be demonstrated.
Major medical organizations, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, also endorse the safety of acetaminophen for expectant mothers.
Meanwhile, Trump, along with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., announced last month that changes to acetaminophen’s labeling would be considered to inform healthcare providers about potential autism risk. The manufacturer, Kenview, has urged the FDA to retract any proposed revisions to its safety label, which currently advises pregnant or breastfeeding individuals to consult a healthcare professional before use.
