Is acetaminophen linked to autism, ADHD risk? A new review denies it.

Last September, a pregnant woman in California anxiously shared her experience on an online forum: after taking acetaminophen to ease debilitating headaches, she stumbled across alarming headlines linking the medication to autism risk in children. Overwhelmed with fear, she hesitated to take her prescribed dose, fearing for her unborn child’s future. This scenario, once isolated, has become a widespread concern, reflecting a growing anxiety among expecting parents regarding the safety of common medications.

The Controversy Uncovered

Acetaminophen, known as paracetamol outside the United States, is one of the most commonly used over-the-counter pain relievers globally. In the U.K. alone, an astounding 6,300 tonnes are sold annually. Yet, a statement from the U.S. government in 2025, suggesting a potential link between its use during pregnancy and neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and ADHD, sent ripples of anxiety through expectant mothers and healthcare providers alike.

“From an obstetric standpoint, the previous studies lacked methodological rigor,” commented Dr. Anand Singh, a consultant gynecologist and obstetrician at the Cadogan Clinic in London. “However, a recent meta-analysis has comprehensively addressed these limitations and offers hopeful reassurance.”

A Meta-Analysis Reassures Pregnant Women

A new meta-analysis, conducted by an international team of researchers from four countries, meticulously examined existing studies to clarify the potential risks associated with acetaminophen during pregnancy. The researchers evaluated numerous databases, focusing on studies that met specific criteria:

• Had a cohort design.
• Reported acetaminophen exposure using biomarkers, medical records, or self-reporting.
• Defined primary and secondary outcomes through validated questionnaires.
• Compared outcomes in pregnant women who took acetaminophen against those who did not.
• Provided information on underlying health conditions and treatments during pregnancy.
• Included sibling-comparison studies to mitigate confounding factors.
• Measured outcomes such as autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, or intellectual disability.

In strong studies—especially those using sibling comparisons—the researchers found no significant association between paracetamol intake during pregnancy and the risk of autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disability. “These findings are a significant counter to previous claims,” stated Dr. Jagdish Khubchandani, a public health professor at New Mexico State University. “It’s robust evidence that supports clinical practice.”

Unraveling Past Findings

The authors of the meta-analysis noted that previous studies suggesting a potential link were flawed due to high heterogeneity and reliance on observational designs that could lead to residual confounding. “Earlier meta-analyses created unnecessary alarm,” they wrote. “The strongest studies now provide powerful evidence against any causal link between acetaminophen and neurodevelopmental disorders.”

The Health Department Responds

A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) stated that while some experts caution against the use of acetaminophen during pregnancy, the findings of the recent review should allay fears. “Many experts agree that acetaminophen, when used as directed, does not pose a significant risk,” they asserted. “However, it remains a topic of ongoing discussion and research.”

Dr. Andrea Baccarelli, Dean of the Harvard School of Public Health, argued for caution, claiming there exists a “causal relationship” between prenatal acetaminophen use and neurodevelopmental disorders. However, many professionals, like Dr. Singh and Dr. Khubchandani, see the new evidence as a vital tool for guiding expectant mothers.

Understanding the Bigger Picture

Both Singh and Khubchandani emphasized the potential dangers of untreated fever and pain during pregnancy. Khubchandani highlighted the risks associated with leaving fevers unresolved, citing studies that point to miscarriages and congenital defects as grave consequences. “Expecting mothers must weigh the benefits of treating pain or fever against the risks of untreated conditions,” he advised.

“Paracetamol remains one of the safest options globally,” Singh reiterated. “Avoidance based solely on social media narratives can lead to unnecessary harm.”

Moreover, the complexities surrounding autism spectrum disorder emphasize that it is not merely a product of one factor. Dr. Sylvia Baker, a consultant psychiatrist specializing in autism and ADHD, underscored that a robust genetic component significantly contributes to the development of neurodevelopmental conditions, with various influences, including prematurity and pregnancy complications, also playing a role. “We need to focus on what truly matters: early intervention and appropriate care for those diagnosed,” she urged.

Reassurance for Expectant Parents

The meta-analysis provides a critical lifeline for expectant parents, enabling them to approach pain relief without overwhelming fears. As healthcare professionals analyze continued data and studies, the hopeful message remains: when used responsibly and with professional guidance, acetaminophen can be a safe ally during pregnancy. The focus, as the evidence suggests, should remain on evidence-based guidance, which alleviates anxiety and fosters informed decision-making.

For the fearful mother in California and many like her, the findings in this recent review offer a reprieve: that a practical solution exists, and, when used correctly, it may not only ease discomfort but also protect her and her child’s well-being.

Source: www.medicalnewstoday.com