A major new scientific review brings reassuring news for expectant parents: using acetaminophen, commonly known as Tylenol, during pregnancy does not increase a child’s risk of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability. This conclusion, detailed in a report by ScienceDaily on January 19, 2026, stems from the most comprehensive analysis of evidence to date.
The findings, based on research led by experts at City St George’s, University of London, were published on January 16 in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Women’s Health. This extensive review aimed to settle renewed public concern following claims made in September 2025, which suggested a link between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and brain development issues.
Previous studies had identified small statistical associations, but often suffered from significant limitations. Many lacked complete data, failed to account for family history, or did not incorporate crucial sibling comparisons, which are vital for separating medication effects from genetic and environmental factors. This new review rigorously addressed these methodological weaknesses.
Sibling studies clarify acetaminophen safety
To overcome the shortcomings of earlier research, the team focused on the highest-quality evidence available, with particular emphasis on sibling comparison studies. In these powerful designs, researchers compare outcomes for children born to the same mother, where one was exposed to acetaminophen during pregnancy and another was not. This approach allows for better control over shared genetics, household environment, and long-term parental characteristics that can strongly influence child development.
The data analyzed was extensive, covering outcomes for 262,852 children assessed for autism, 335,255 for ADHD, and 406,681 for intellectual disability. Across these large populations, no evidence emerged to suggest that acetaminophen use during pregnancy increased the risk of any of these conditions when compared with pregnancies where the medication was not used. Professor Asma Khalil, Professor of Obstetrics and Maternal Fetal Medicine at City St George’s, University of London, and lead author, explained that previously reported links were likely due to genetic predisposition or other maternal factors like fever or underlying pain.
Reassuring findings amidst prior concerns
The consistent lack of a link remained even when the researchers limited their analysis to studies rated as having a low risk of bias, indicating the highest quality. Similar reassuring results were observed in studies that followed children for more than five years. This robust methodology underscores the reliability of the current findings, offering clear guidance for pregnant individuals.
Professor Khalil emphasized, “The message is clear — paracetamol remains a safe option during pregnancy when taken as guided. This is important as paracetamol is the first-line medication we recommend for pregnant women in pain or with a fever, and so they should feel reassured that they still have a safe option to relieve them of their symptoms.” The authors did note some limitations, such as insufficient data to examine risks by trimester, baby’s sex, or frequency of use, but the overall safety profile is strongly supported.
This comprehensive review provides definitive reassurance for expectant parents and healthcare providers alike. It reinforces that acetaminophen remains a safe and effective option for managing pain and fever during pregnancy, dispelling concerns that have circulated recently. Future research may delve deeper into specific usage patterns, but the fundamental understanding of its safety regarding neurodevelopmental disorders is now much clearer.
