Tylenol (acetaminophen) use during pregnancy has been studied extensively for a possible link to autism, with mixed findings. The most robust and large- scale sibling comparison studies, including one analyzing nearly 2.5 million children in Sweden, found no causal link between acetaminophen exposure during pregnancy and autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities once genetic and environmental factors were controlled for. These studies suggest that earlier associations were likely due to other confounding factors like parental neurodevelopmental disorders or socioeconomic status, rather than a direct effect of the drug itself.
However, some recent systematic reviews and studies, including a 2025 study led by researchers at Mount Sinai and Harvard, indicate a possible association between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and ADHD. These studies advocate cautious use of acetaminophen during pregnancy, recommending the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration, while acknowledging the need to manage pain and fever in pregnant women carefully.
The U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly stated concerns about Tylenol use during pregnancy and its potential link to autism, prompting upcoming FDA guidance to healthcare professionals recommending restricted use of acetaminophen during pregnancy except for severe cases such as high fever. This move follows the precautionary principle due to some epidemiological signals, although scientific consensus is not strong enough for a definitive causal claim.
In summary, while no definitive causal link has been established between Tylenol (acetaminophen) use during pregnancy and autism, some evidence suggests potential risk, leading health authorities to advise cautious use and further research on this topic to clarify the safety profile. References:
- Large sibling studies found no causal link between acetaminophen and autism.
- Some recent studies indicate possible increased risk of autism and ADHD with prenatal acetaminophen exposure, recommending caution.
- US government and President Trump urging restricted Tylenol use in pregnancy pending further guidance.
