Austin, TX, January 17, 2026
A new review suggests there is no connection between Tylenol (acetaminophen) use during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities. This research contradicts earlier claims that linked prenatal acetaminophen exposure to neurodevelopmental disorders. The comprehensive study analyzed data from 43 previous studies and confirmed Tylenol’s safety under appropriate usage guidelines during pregnancy, emphasizing its importance for managing pain and fever in expectant mothers.
New Study Finds Tylenol Safe During Pregnancy: No Link to Autism
Austin, TX – A new comprehensive review published in *The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynecology & Women’s Health* concludes that there is no connection between Tylenol (acetaminophen) use during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities in children. This pivotal research counters earlier claims that suggested potential associations between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Key Findings
- Study Overview: The review synthesized data from 43 studies, including sibling comparison studies, to evaluate the effects of prenatal acetaminophen exposure.
- Conclusion: Researchers determined there is no causal link between maternal use of acetaminophen during pregnancy and the development of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities in children.
- Safety of Tylenol: Dr. Asma Khalil, the lead author, asserts that Tylenol remains a safe and recommended option for treating pain and fever during pregnancy, cautioning that avoiding its use could lead to negative outcomes for both mother and fetus.
Background Context
During September 2025, prior claims surfaced when the Trump administration advised pregnant women to avoid Tylenol due to potential autism risks. The findings from this recent study contribute to a mounting body of research refuting these claims. Previous studies suggested links between acetaminophen use and neurodevelopmental issues, but experts noted limitations such as small sample sizes and confounding factors like fever itself, a known risk factor for autism. The most reliable studies, notably sibling comparison studies, have failed to establish a causal relationship between prenatal Tylenol use and autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Implications for Public Health
Experts in maternal and child health emphasize that restricting access to fever or pain relief for pregnant women can pose significant risks. The current findings reaffirm existing safety recommendations from organizations like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, which endorse acetaminophen as a safe treatment option during pregnancy when administered appropriately.
Conclusion
This latest research strongly indicates that Tylenol does not elevate the risk of autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders in children when used responsibly during pregnancy. This revelation reestablishes the importance of Tylenol as a trusted pain and fever management option for expectant mothers, allowing them to have peace of mind about their healthcare choices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What did the new study published in *The Lancet* find?
The study found no link between Tylenol (acetaminophen) use during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities in children.
What was the previous claim regarding Tylenol use during pregnancy?
In September 2025, the Trump administration warned pregnant women against using Tylenol, citing potential links to autism.
What do medical experts say about Tylenol use during pregnancy?
Medical experts emphasize that denying appropriate fever or pain treatment during pregnancy could entail significant risks. The findings support existing recommendations from medical groups like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, which consider acetaminophen a safe option for relieving pain or fever during pregnancy when used appropriately.
What is the significance of sibling comparison studies in this research?
Sibling comparison studies are considered more reliable because they account for genetic and environmental factors, providing stronger evidence against a causal link between Tylenol use during pregnancy and autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders.
What are the implications of this study for public health?
The study reinforces the safety of Tylenol as a pain and fever treatment during pregnancy, suggesting that avoiding it could pose more harm than benefit to both mother and fetus.
Key Features of the Study
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Study Type | Comprehensive review of 43 studies, including sibling comparison studies |
| Key Finding | No causal link between maternal acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities in children |
| Lead Author | Dr. Asma Khalil |
| Publication | *The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynecology & Women’s Health* |
| Implications | Supports existing recommendations from medical groups regarding the safety of acetaminophen use during pregnancy |
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