Comprehensive Review Finds No Link Between Acetaminophen Use During Pregnancy and Autism
A new analysis published in The Lancet concludes that acetaminophen use during pregnancy does not increase the risk of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities in children.
A comprehensive review published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynecology & Women's Health has found no link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or intellectual disabilities in children. This finding challenges previous claims suggesting such associations.
The study analyzed 43 high-quality studies, including large-scale sibling comparison studies from Sweden and Japan, which accounted for genetic and environmental factors. The researchers concluded that acetaminophen remains a safe option for managing pain and fever during pregnancy.
"It remains to be the first line treatment that we would recommend if the pregnant women have pain or fever," said Dr. Asma Khalil, a consultant obstetrician and fetal medicine specialist at St. George’s Hospital in London.
The review was prompted by concerns following statements from President Donald Trump and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who had previously warned against acetaminophen use during pregnancy, citing unproven links to autism. These claims had led to confusion and anxiety among expectant mothers.
"After this declaration, there were a lot of mothers who actually were scared to take paracetamol," said Dr. Francesco D’Antonio, a professor of fetal medicine at the University of Chieti in Italy. "The day after this declaration, actually, we had a massive increase in phone calls and emails from women."
Medical experts emphasize the importance of treating pain and fever during pregnancy, as untreated symptoms can pose risks to both mother and fetus. The study's authors caution against avoiding acetaminophen based on inconclusive evidence, highlighting that such avoidance could lead to greater harm than the medication itself.
"Avoidance of paracetamol based on inconclusive evidence could expose pregnant women and their babies to known risks associated with untreated fever or severe pain," the paper stated.
This latest analysis aims to provide clarity and reassurance to healthcare providers and pregnant women regarding the safety of acetaminophen use during pregnancy.