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The most commonly used painkiller by pregnant women may be linked to an increased risk of autism and ADHD in children, as suggested by new research. Paracetamol—also known as acetaminophen, often sold under the brand name Tylenol in the US—has long been seen as a safe choice for expectant mothers dealing with headaches, fever, or minor pain.
It is even recommended by the NHS as the primary treatment option during pregnancy, assuming it is taken in low doses and short durations. However, a new analysis by scientists from Harvard University and Mount Sinai in New York has raised concerns about its potential impact on child development.
The team reviewed 46 studies involving more than 100,000 participants, making it the largest and most detailed investigation into the issue to date.
The findings, documented in the journal Environmental Health, suggest a “strong” association between prenatal exposure to paracetamol and increased rates of both autism and ADHD. Although the research does not conclusively prove the drug directly causes these conditions, experts suggest the evidence is substantial enough to advise caution.
Dr Didier Prada, assistant professor of population health science at Mount Sinai, stated: “Our findings demonstrate that higher-quality studies are more likely to show a connection between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and elevated risks of autism and ADHD. Considering the widespread usage of this medication, even a small increase in risk could have significant public health implications.”
In the UK, approximately half of all pregnant women are believed to use paracetamol, while in the US, it is used by about two-thirds. Due to these high usage rates, health experts are advising mothers-to-be to take the drug only when crucial and always under medical supervision. The recommendation is to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration.
The researchers stressed that women should not discontinue paracetamol use abruptly if advised by a doctor, as untreated fever or severe pain during pregnancy can itself be detrimental to a baby. Instead, the study underscores the importance of consulting healthcare professionals about safe alternatives and non-drug strategies when possible.
The new warning comes at a time when autism and ADHD diagnoses are climbing sharply in both the UK and US. NHS data shows nearly 130,000 children were on waiting lists for an autism assessment in England at the end of 2024, while prescriptions for ADHD medication have risen by 20 per cent in just a year.
While many researchers point to greater awareness and improved diagnostic methods as factors behind the increase, others argue that environmental and biological influences may also be contributing.
