Acetaminophen use during pregnancy connected to elevated risks of Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
In August 2025, a comprehensive study on the connection between acetaminophen (paracetamol) intake during pregnancy and higher risks for autism, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) was published in BMC Environmental Health. The research was led by Professor Diddier Prada from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City, in collaboration with researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles, University of Massachusetts Lowell, and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
The study aimed to objectively examine the association between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders and related symptomology in offspring. Using the Navigation Guide methodology, the researchers analysed 46 international studies with over 100,000 mother-child pairs.
The findings of the study suggest a significant link between acetaminophen intake during pregnancy and an increased incidence of NDDs. Of the 46 studies, 27 reported positive associations, indicating a significant link to NDDs, 9 showed null associations, and 4 indicated negative associations, suggesting potential protective effects. Interestingly, higher-quality studies were more likely to show positive associations.
The study recommends appropriate and immediate steps to advise pregnant women to limit acetaminophen consumption to protect their offspring's neurodevelopment. Funding for this study was provided by the National Cancer Institute (U54CA267776), the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (R35ES031688), and the National Institute on Aging (U01AG088684).
The majority of the studies reported positive associations of prenatal acetaminophen use with ADHD, ASD, or NDDs in offspring. While further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these associations, the study's conclusions support evidence consistent with an association between acetaminophen exposure during pregnancy and increased incidence of NDDs.
This study underscores the importance of careful consideration when using pain relievers during pregnancy, and pregnant women are advised to consult with their healthcare providers regarding the potential risks and benefits of acetaminophen use.
){kind=link}