New Research Suggests Prenatal Acetaminophen Use May Increase Autism and ADHD Risks

Recent research from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai provides compelling evidence that prenatal exposure to acetaminophen, commonly known as Tylenol, could be linked to a higher likelihood of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. Published in the journal Environmental Health, this study is the first to employ the rigorous Navigation Guide methodology to systematically assess the quality and strength of existing scientific evidence.

Acetaminophen is frequently used during pregnancy to manage pain and fever, with over half of pregnant women worldwide relying on it. Historically, it has been regarded as a safe option for pregnant women, but this new analysis challenges that perception. The researchers examined data from 46 studies involving more than 100,000 participants across various countries. Their findings indicate that higher-quality studies are more likely to show a correlation between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and increased risks of ASD and ADHD.

The study also explores possible biological mechanisms that could explain this association. Acetaminophen is known to cross the placental barrier and may induce oxidative stress, disrupt hormonal balances, and cause epigenetic modifications that interfere with fetal brain development. While the research does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship, it underscores the need for cautious use of acetaminophen during pregnancy.

Experts recommend that pregnant women consult healthcare providers before taking any medication. The authors suggest that acetaminophen should be used temporarily and under medical supervision, with an emphasis on exploring non-drug alternatives when possible. The findings call for updated clinical guidelines to better weigh the benefits and potential risks of acetaminophen use during pregnancy.

Public health implications are significant, considering the increasing prevalence of autism and ADHD diagnoses worldwide. The study advocates for further research to confirm these findings and to develop safer options for managing pain and fever during pregnancy. Collaboration with institutions like UCLA, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, and others underscores the importance of this ongoing investigation.

In summary, while acetaminophen remains a common remedy, pregnant women and healthcare professionals should be aware of potential risks and exercise caution. Ensuring maternal and fetal health requires balancing effective pain management with emerging evidence to minimize harm.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-evidence-prenatal-acetaminophen-linked-autism.html