NewsNation reports that a recent review has established there is no definitive connection between taking paracetamol, commonly referred to as acetaminophen, during pregnancy and the subsequent development of autism or ADHD in children. This significant finding was published in the BMJ and comes in the wake of controversial claims made by former President Donald Trump, who suggested that the use of Tylenol during pregnancy could lead to autism in children.
Researchers from the University of Liverpool conducted an extensive examination of nine systematic reviews that encompassed 40 observational studies focused on paracetamol use during pregnancy and its potential impact on neurodevelopmental outcomes in children. Their analysis concluded that the overall quality of evidence linking paracetamol to neurodevelopmental disorders is rated as “low to critically low.”
Professor Shakila Thangaratinam, the lead researcher, stated, “We have shown that based on current evidence, there is no clear link between women taking paracetamol during pregnancy and a diagnosis of autism or ADHD in their children.” This finding is essential for healthcare professionals as it allows them to provide evidence-based advice and reassurance to expectant mothers regarding the use of paracetamol during pregnancy when necessary.
The review highlighted that previous studies reporting associations between acetaminophen and developmental disorders were likely influenced by genetic and environmental factors, such as parental mental health and lifestyle choices shared within families. The researchers pointed out that only two studies appropriately adjusted for family-related factors. When these adjustments were made, any apparent connections between acetaminophen and developmental disorders either disappeared or were significantly diminished.
Although the researchers acknowledged the necessity for more high-quality studies in the future, they emphasized that the existing body of evidence does not support the notion that paracetamol use during pregnancy poses a risk of autism or ADHD.
In light of the new findings, it is important to address Trump's earlier warnings against the use of acetaminophen, a medication widely regarded as one of the safest options for pain relief during pregnancy. Despite the lack of conclusive evidence supporting his claims, Trump has advised pregnant women to avoid Tylenol due to potential risks of autism.
Both the World Health Organization and the European Union have publicly refuted Trump’s assertions regarding the association of acetaminophen with conditions like autism and ADHD when taken by pregnant women. Additionally, the FDA has stated that “a causal relationship has not been established” in response to Trump's initial warnings.
Various medical organizations, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, have endorsed acetaminophen as safe for pregnant women. However, Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. indicated last month that the FDA would begin updating the label on acetaminophen to inform physicians that Tylenol “can be associated with a very increased risk of autism.”
In response to these developments, Kenvue, the manufacturer of Tylenol, has urged the FDA to retract the proposed changes to the safety label. The current label advises individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding to “ask a health professional before use.”
This comprehensive review sheds light on the ongoing discussions surrounding paracetamol use during pregnancy and aims to provide clarity for expectant mothers and healthcare providers alike.
