Acetaminophen (APAP) is a common ingredient found in many over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, prescriptions, and also cold medicines. It is commonly known as a pain reliever and fever reducer. In Tylenol, acetaminophen is the only active ingredient. The way acetaminophen relieves pain is by blocking pain signals within the central nervous system.
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We represent parents whose children suffer from autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and/or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as a result of exposure to acetaminophen taken by mothers during pregnancy.
- Nature Reviews Endocrinology Study| New Window: A 2021 summary of the evidence that shows acetaminophen increases the risk of some neurodevelopmental, reproductive, and urogenital disorders (including ADHD and ASD). Also outlines that acetaminophen is “estimated to be used by up to 65% of pregnant women.”
- Johns Hopkins Study| New Window: This 2019 study by researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that prenatal acetaminophen exposure may increase a child’s risk for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- National Institutes of Health Study| New Window: This 2019 study suggests that exposure to acetaminophen in the womb is linked to higher risks of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and/or autism.
- American Journal of Epidemiology Article| New Window: This 2018 article outline studies that examined the use of acetaminophen during pregnancy and acetaminophen’s impact on the unborn child. The studies concluded that “acetaminophen exposure during pregnancy is associated with a 20% – 30% increased risk for neurodevelopmental disorders,” including ADHD and autism.