Despite rising autism diagnoses, robust studies show no evidence paracetamol use in pregnancy causes autism, experts stress.
Paracetamol, one of the world’s most widely used painkillers, has come under scrutiny in the U.S. following claims it may be linked to autism when taken during pregnancy. Autism diagnoses in America have risen sharply, from one in 150 children in 2000 to one in 30 today, prompting speculation over environmental factors.
Several studies suggested a correlation between maternal paracetamol use and autism or ADHD in children. However, scientists emphasize that correlation is not causation, pointing to genetic predisposition, lifestyle, or the underlying illnesses prompting paracetamol use as stronger explanations.
A landmark Swedish study involving 2.5 million children found no causal link between paracetamol and autism, reinforcing recommendations by UK health authorities that the drug remains the safest pain relief option during pregnancy. Experts warn that speculation unfairly stigmatizes mothers and distracts from real autism research.