Lancet review finds no evidence linking Tylenol use in pregnancy to autism.

A new systematic review and meta-analysis in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Women's Health found no evidence that acetaminophen use in pregnancy increases risk of autism, ADHD or intellectual disability; experts say the paper counters recent public claims that suggested a link.

A new systematic review and meta-analysis published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Women's Health examined the global research on acetaminophen use in pregnancy and child neurodevelopment. The study, conducted by researchers in several European countries and reported as unfunded, revisited earlier suggestions of a possible link between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders. Its authors and outside experts concluded that the accumulated evidence does not show an increased risk of autism, ADHD or intellectual disability associated with acetaminophen use in pregnancy. The report comes after public remarks last year that linked Tylenol use in pregnancy to autism and prompted renewed public concern. Key points: - The paper is a systematic review and includes a meta-analysis, and its authors were based in Italy, Sweden, Norway and the United Kingdom; the study is reported as having no funding. - Researchers adjusted for genetic risk in their analysis, and the review found no evidence that prenatal acetaminophen increases the risk of autism, ADHD or intellectual disability. - An earlier review published in the British Medical Journal also found insufficient evidence of a link between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and autism or ADHD. - Canadian autism and pediatric researchers quoted in the article said the Lancet findings are consistent with existing scientific understanding and counter recent public claims that linked Tylenol to autism. - Clinicians reported an increase in patient questions and some hesitancy about medication use in pregnancy after the public statements; researchers also noted concerns about the diversion of research attention and resources. - The article describes parental anxiety as an effect of the public claims, illustrated by a mother who revisited her pregnancy decisions after the news conference. Summary: The Lancet review reinforces prior scientific findings that do not support a causal link between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and autism or related neurodevelopmental disorders, and experts say it undercuts recent public assertions to the contrary. The study has prompted discussion among researchers and clinicians about how to address public concern and questions about medication safety in pregnancy. Undetermined at this time