New Study Finds No Link Between Paracetamol and Autism Risk

A recent study published on March 15, 2024, reveals that taking paracetamol during pregnancy does not increase the risk of autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or intellectual disability in children. This analysis comes in response to claims made by former US President Donald Trump in September 2025, linking paracetamol use during pregnancy to rising autism rates, a statement that was widely contested by experts.

Researchers from City St George’s, University of London conducted the study to address the concerns raised by Trump’s assertions. They argued that earlier studies suggesting a connection between paracetamol use and increased autism risk were often flawed. These studies frequently suffered from biases, such as inadequate data collection methods and a lack of sibling comparisons that would account for genetic and familial factors.

Study Overview and Findings

The analysis examined 43 high-quality studies, focusing on pregnancies where mothers took paracetamol compared to those who did not. Researchers pooled data from sibling comparison studies, which involved siblings born to the same mother where one pregnancy included paracetamol exposure while the other did not. This approach helps control for shared genetics and family environment, factors that traditional studies often overlook.

The comprehensive data set included assessments of 262,852 children for autism, 335,255 for ADHD, and 406,681 for intellectual disability. The results confirmed that there is no significant link between paracetamol use during pregnancy and the development of these conditions in children.

Professor Asma Khalil, the study’s lead author and a consultant obstetrician, emphasized that the findings suggest previously reported associations may result from genetic predispositions or other maternal factors, rather than the direct effects of paracetamol. She stated, “The message is clear – paracetamol remains a safe option during pregnancy when taken as guided.”

Current Recommendations and Health Implications

In light of the findings, paracetamol is reaffirmed as the first-line medication for pregnant women experiencing pain or fever. The National Health Service (NHS) in the UK supports this stance, declaring that paracetamol is the preferred painkiller during pregnancy and does not harm the developing fetus. Following the earlier claims in the United States, the UK’s Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) reiterated that there is no evidence linking paracetamol use during pregnancy to autism in children.

The DHSC also highlighted the risks associated with untreated pain and fever, underscoring the importance of managing these symptoms to protect both the mother and the unborn child.

While the study offers reassurance, the authors acknowledged limitations. They noted the inability to investigate the effects of paracetamol usage based on specific pregnancy trimesters, the sex of the baby, or the frequency of paracetamol intake due to insufficient data from existing studies. Despite this, the research aligns with recommendations from major medical organizations globally, aiming to eliminate skepticism regarding paracetamol use during pregnancy.

The researchers hope that this comprehensive review will encourage expectant mothers to use paracetamol when necessary, as avoiding it in cases of significant pain or fever could pose risks to both maternal and fetal health.

The findings were published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Women’s Health, contributing valuable insights to ongoing discussions regarding medication safety during pregnancy.