Taking paracetamol during pregnancy does not increase the risk of autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or intellectual disability among children. That is according to the most rigorous analysis of the evidence to date published today in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Women’s Health, and led by researchers from City St George’s, University of London.
Researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 43 existing studies. They pooled the results of sibling comparison studies that compared siblings born to the same mother, where one pregnancy involved paracetamol exposure and another did not. Across the sibling-comparison studies, data included 262,852 children assessed for autism, 335,255 for ADHD and 406,681 for intellectual disability. When compared to pregnancies with no exposure to paracetamol, it was confirmed that taking paracetamol in pregnancy was not linked to childhood autism, ADHD or intellectual disability.
“Our findings suggest that previously reported links are likely to be explained by genetic predisposition or other maternal factors. ‘The message is clear – paracetamol remains a safe option during pregnancy when taken as guided,'” said lead study author and consultant obstetrician Professor Asma Khalil. She added: “This is important as paracetamol is the first-line medication we recommend for pregnant women in pain or with a fever, and so they should feel reassured that they still have a safe option to relieve them of their symptoms”.
The claims were based on earlier studies that reported small associations between paracetamol in pregnancy and increased risks of autism. However, these were often based on studies prone to biases, including not exploring comparisons between siblings to account for family history, which is vital information. Experts noted that observational studies like those favored in earlier meta-analyses can overestimate the existence of an association.
This was in response to public concerns following claims back in September 2025 that suggested taking paracetamol during pregnancy might impact the neurodevelopment of those children and increase their risk of autism. The findings debunk Donald Trump’s claims last September that the painkiller causes autism. US President Donald Trump shocked many doctors worldwide when he and his administration claimed paracetamol could be linked to autism in children, if taken during pregnancy.
Overall, the findings of the study support the recommendations made by major medical organisations worldwide. The researchers hope that this gold-standard review will put an end to any scepticism on using paracetamol during pregnancy as avoiding paracetamol for significant pain or fever can expose both mother and baby to known risks, particularly untreated maternal fever.