A massive new study published January 16 in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Women’s Health found no link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism in children, contradicting statements made by President Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in the fall.
The new research—a systematic review of 43 previous studies and meta-analysis of 17 studies—concludes that using acetaminophen in pregnancy does not raise the risk for autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability in children. The authors suggest other factors such as pain, illness, or fever during pregnancy rather than the medication itself may explain previous associations found in some studies.
Trump suggested pregnant women take the medication only if they have an “extremely high fever and you feel you can’t tough it out,” while the FDA said it would initiate a label change and warned physicians of “an association” between autism and acetaminophen use in pregnancy. The FDA letter noted that “a causal relationship has not been established and there are contrary studies in the scientific literature.” Experts and major medical organizations immediately expressed strong disagreement with the administration’s assertions.
Acetaminophen is one of the few safe pain and fever management options for pregnant people. Ibuprofen is not recommended during pregnancy, and narcotics carry their own risks. Untreated fever, particularly in the first trimester, increases the risk of miscarriage, birth defects, and premature birth, according to the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine. Untreated pain can lead to maternal depression, anxiety, and high blood pressure. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states acetaminophen “has long been established as a safe pain reliever and fever reducer for use during pregnancy” when taken “as needed, in moderation, and after consultation with a doctor.”
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://www.today.com/health/womens-health/tylenol-pregnancy-autism-new-study-rcna254465