New Study Assesses Paracetamol Use During Pregnancy and Autism

Recent research published by the British Medical Journal (BMJ) has sparked renewed discussions about the safety of taking paracetamol during pregnancy. The evidence review aimed to investigate potential links between paracetamol use and the development of autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. The findings indicate that current evidence does not establish a clear connection between paracetamol use and these developmental disorders.

One of the significant conclusions of the BMJ review is that confidence in the available studies is “low to critically low.” Researchers suggest that any observed effects in previous studies may be influenced by shared genetic and environmental factors within families rather than caused directly by paracetamol. They emphasized the need for various stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, clinicians, and expectant mothers, to be aware of the limitations of existing research. The review advises that paracetamol can be safely used to treat pain and fever during pregnancy when necessary.

This research comes in the wake of recent statements made by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who controversially linked rising autism diagnoses to the use of paracetamol, known as Tylenol in the United States, during pregnancy. Trump stated, “Taking Tylenol is not good. It’s not good. Don’t take Tylenol. Fight like hell not to take it.” His comments faced widespread criticism from health experts and organizations.

The World Health Organization (WHO) responded to Trump’s remarks by asserting that the evidence linking paracetamol use to autism remains inconsistent. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) also echoed this sentiment, stating, “Available evidence has found no link between the use of paracetamol during pregnancy and autism.” Many experts attribute the rise in autism diagnoses to greater awareness, changes in diagnostic criteria, and improved identification of cases, particularly among girls and women who were previously underdiagnosed.

Paracetamol, or acetaminophen, is widely recognized as the recommended treatment for pain and fever in pregnant women, with global regulatory agencies deeming it safe. In Ireland, both the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) and the Health Service Executive (HSE) reaffirm their stance that paracetamol is safe for use during pregnancy.

Prof Geraldine Leader and Dr Sally Whelan from the Irish Centre for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Research at the University of Galway advocate for the continued use of paracetamol among pregnant women when necessary. They stated, “Autism occurs due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is incorrect to suggest that one factor, such as taking paracetamol in pregnancy, causes autism.”

This recent evidence review highlights the importance of further research into the effects of medications during pregnancy. It also emphasizes the need for clear communication between medical professionals and the public to dispel misconceptions surrounding the use of paracetamol and its safety for expectant mothers.