Paracetamol during pregnancy linked to high risk of autism and ADHD in babies

Taking paracetamol during pregnancy, one of the most common medicines used for fever and pain, may increase the risk of certain neurodevelopmental disorders in newborns, including autism and ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder), according to new research.

Paracetamol, also known globally as acetaminophen and sold under popular brands such as Crocin or Dolo, is used by more than half of pregnant women worldwide. It has long been considered safe compared to other painkillers, but scientists are now questioning this assumption.

WHAT THE STUDY FOUND

Researchers from the University of Massachusetts, Harvard University, and Institute for Health Equity Research reviewed decades of scientific evidence to understand the link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and child development.

In the study published in Environmental Health, they examined 46 studies and found that 27 studies reported a link between prenatal paracetamol use and conditions such as autism, ADHD, or other neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs).

While 9 studies found no association, 4 studies suggested a protective effect, though these were less reliable.

Importantly, the stronger, higher-quality studies were more likely to show a positive link, strengthening the concern.

WHAT ARE THESE DISORDERS?

. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD): A developmental condition that affects social interaction, communication, and behaviour. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.

. ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder): A condition where children may struggle with focus, controlling impulses, or staying



still.

. Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs): A broader group of conditions that affect how the brain grows and functions, leading to learning, behavioural, or communication difficulties.

WHY THIS MATTERS

The findings are worrying because paracetamol is usually the first medicine doctors recommend during pregnancy when a woman has fever, headaches, or body pain. Unlike stronger drugs such as ibuprofen or aspirin, which are generally avoided in pregnancy, paracetamol has been considered the “safer” choice for decades.

“Our analyses support evidence consistent with an association between acetaminophen exposure during pregnancy and increased incidence of neurodevelopmental disorders. Appropriate and immediate steps should be taken to advise pregnant women to limit acetaminophen consumption to protect their offspring’s neurodevelopment," the researchers wrote.

SHOULD PREGNANT WOMEN BE WORRIED?

While the findings do not say that women should never take paracetamol, but caution is needed. Untreated fever or severe pain in pregnancy can also harm both the mother and baby, so a balance must be struck.

. Use paracetamol only when absolutely necessary.

. Take the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.

. Always consult a doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy, even common over-the-counter ones.

More research is needed to confirm exactly how strong the link is, but pregnant women should be cautious and avoid self-medicating.

The safest advice: don’t panic, but always check with your doctor before reaching for that Crocin.