“Paracetamol Use in Pregnancy May Increase Children’s Risk of Autism, ADHD,” Study Warns

New research indicates that taking paracetamol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy could increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) in children, including autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

The study, conducted by researchers from Mount Sinai Hospital and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, was published on August 14 in *BMC Environmental Health*. It reviewed 46 previous studies, encompassing data from over 100,000 participants, to explore the potential link between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and the development of NDDs in children.

Using the navigation guide systematic review methodology—a recognized standard for evaluating environmental health evidence—the researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis. Their findings suggest a clear association between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and an increased likelihood of NDDs.

While paracetamol is widely used to treat maternal pain and fever, which can also negatively affect fetal development, the study emphasizes careful use.

“We recommend judicious acetaminophen use—lowest effective dose, shortest duration—under medical guidance, tailored to individual risk-benefit assessments, rather than a broad limitation,” the researchers said.

Diddier Prada, assistant professor of population health science at Mount Sinai Hospital and co-author of the study, noted that higher-quality research tends to show a stronger link between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and increased risks of autism and ADHD.

“Given the widespread use of this medication, even a small increase in risk could have major public health implications,” Prada said. He added that pregnant women should not abruptly stop taking paracetamol without consulting their healthcare providers.

“Untreated pain or fever can also harm the baby. Our study highlights the importance of discussing the safest approach with healthcare providers and considering non-drug options whenever possible,” he said.