In this study, researchers from the University of Massachusetts, Harvard University, and the Institute for Health Equity Research reviewed decades of data, including 46 previous studies, and found that over half showed a significant association between prenatal paracetamol use and an increased risk of autism, ADHD, or other neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Significantly, higher-quality studies were more likely to reveal these risks, thus suggesting that the link is not coincidental. Previous research published in 2016 showed that babies exposed to paracetamol are also more likely to develop asthma.
These findings matter because paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is one of the most commonly used medications in pregnancy, taken by more than half of expectant mothers worldwide. Unlike stronger drugs such as ibuprofen or aspirin, which are avoided by mothers-to-be due to well-known risks, paracetamol has long been prescribed for fever, headaches, and body pain, and assumed to be safe. The researchers warn that this perception may now need urgent reassessment.
To learn more about the dangers of paracetamol, see this article on our website.
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August 29, 2025Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) During Pregnancy Linked to High Risk of Autism and ADHD in Babies
News
A new study has contested the notion that paracetamol (acetaminophen) is highly safe during pregnancy. Unnecessary use of paracetamol has now shown an increased risk of autism and ADHD in newborns.
[Source: indiatoday.in]
[Image source: Adobe Stock]
Comment
In this study, researchers from the University of Massachusetts, Harvard University, and the Institute for Health Equity Research reviewed decades of data, including 46 previous studies, and found that over half showed a significant association between prenatal paracetamol use and an increased risk of autism, ADHD, or other neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Significantly, higher-quality studies were more likely to reveal these risks, thus suggesting that the link is not coincidental. Previous research published in 2016 showed that babies exposed to paracetamol are also more likely to develop asthma.
These findings matter because paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is one of the most commonly used medications in pregnancy, taken by more than half of expectant mothers worldwide. Unlike stronger drugs such as ibuprofen or aspirin, which are avoided by mothers-to-be due to well-known risks, paracetamol has long been prescribed for fever, headaches, and body pain, and assumed to be safe. The researchers warn that this perception may now need urgent reassessment.
To learn more about the dangers of paracetamol, see this article on our website.
Dr. Rath Health Foundation
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