Paracetamol use in pregnancy study finds no link with autism, experts say

A large international review published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Women's Health found no evidence that paracetamol use in pregnancy increases the risk of autism, ADHD or intellectual disability, and experts said the findings should reassure expectant people.

A major international review has examined available research on paracetamol use during pregnancy and reported no clear link with autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or intellectual disability. The review was published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Women's Health and was carried out by a team including UK academics. The work pooled and analysed many prior studies to address public concern that followed earlier high-profile comments suggesting a possible link. Lead authors and UK health officials described the results as supportive of existing guidance on paracetamol's safety when used as directed. Key findings: - The review included 43 studies in a systematic review and 17 studies in a formal meta-analysis. - Authors reported that paracetamol exposure in pregnancy was "not associated with the risk" of autism spectrum disorder, ADHD or intellectual disabilities according to pooled analyses. - The review gave particular weight to sibling comparison studies, which compare siblings with different in‑utero exposure, to help account for family factors. - Study lead author Professor Asma Khalil said the evidence showed no clinically important increase in risk and that paracetamol remains the first-line treatment recommended for pain or fever in pregnancy by the study team. - The report followed public discussion after comments by a US political figure; UK experts and the Health Secretary said the review should reassure mothers-to-be. Summary: The review is intended to clarify earlier concerns and to support existing recommendations on paracetamol use in pregnancy, and experts described the findings as reassuring for expectant people. Undetermined at this time.