Archive · 18 Jan 2026
Paracetamol Use in Pregnancy Safe, No Link to Autism or ADHD
A big study looked at lots of other studies to see if taking paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) during pregnancy can cause problems like autism, ADHD, or learning disabilities in children.
The study found that taking paracetamol during pregnancy does not increase the risk of these conditions.
Some people, like the U.S. President, had said that paracetamol might not be safe, but this new study says it is safe to use as directed.
The study also said that not taking paracetamol when needed could be risky because it might not treat pain or fever, which could lead to other problems.
So, pregnant people can feel more confident about using paracetamol if their doctor says it's okay.
A recent study found no link between maternal paracetamol use during pregnancy and increased risk of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities in children.
The study reviewed 43 previous studies involving over 262,000 children assessed for autism, 335,000 for ADHD, and 406,000 for intellectual disability.
The findings contradict earlier suggestions and biases that paracetamol use during pregnancy could increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders.
The study's authors emphasized that avoiding paracetamol might expose mothers and fetuses to risks associated with untreated pain and fever.
The study supports existing recommendations on the safety of paracetamol use during pregnancy when used as directed.
- Who
- Pregnant individuals using paracetamol and their children
- What
- A study finding no link between maternal paracetamol use and autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities in children
- When
- The study was published recently, with President Trump's statement in September 2025
- Where
- The study was published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women's Health, with implications for global health guidelines
- Why
- To address concerns about the safety of paracetamol use during pregnancy and its potential impact on child neurodevelopment
- Study Published In
- The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women's Health
- Number of Studies Reviewed
- 43
- Children Assessed for Autism
- 262,000
- Children Assessed for ADHD
- 335,000
- Children Assessed for Intellectual Disability
- 406,000
- Lead Author
- Prof Asma Khalil, St George's University Hospitals, UK
- Date of President Trump's Statement
- September 2025
- Main Ingredient in Tylenol
- Acetaminophen (Paracetamol)
