No Link Between Paracetamol Use in Pregnancy and Autism, Lancet Review Finds

A major international review published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Women's Health has found no scientific evidence to support claims that paracetamol use during pregnancy is linked to autism in children.

The findings directly challenge earlier public warnings that had urged expectant mothers to limit the use of the widely prescribed painkiller.

Released on January 16, the review also cautions that avoiding paracetamol without medical justification could expose both pregnant women and their babies to real and preventable health risks, particularly when fever or severe pain is left untreated.

Lancet review dismisses autism link

The systematic review, titled Prenatal paracetamol exposure and child neurodevelopment, was led by Francesco D'Antonio and analysed data drawn from 43 clinical studies conducted across multiple countries. After a detailed assessment of the available research, the authors concluded that there is no reliable evidence showing a direct connection between prenatal paracetamol exposure and autism in children.

Explaining its continued medical use, the authors stated, "Paracetamol, or acetaminophen, is the most commonly used during pregnancy, recommended globally as a first-line option for pain relief and fever reduction. Its safety profile is generally more favourable than that of other drugs, making it the preferred choice in obstetric care."

Political claims contradicted by medical evidence

The findings come against the backdrop of claims made in September 2025, when US President Donald Trump and his administration advised pregnant women to limit paracetamol use, citing an alleged link with autism in infants. The Lancet review makes it clear that such assertions are not backed by scientific data.

Summarising its conclusions, the review noted, "Current evidence does not indicate a clinically important increase in the likelihood of autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, or intellectual disability in children of pregnant individuals who use paracetamol as directed, supporting existing recommendations on its safety."

Risks of avoiding paracetamol during pregnancy

The review also draws attention to the potential dangers of discouraging appropriate paracetamol use. In many healthcare settings, paracetamol remains the only safe and accessible option for managing fever and pain during pregnancy. The authors warn that untreated maternal fever has been linked to serious outcomes such as miscarriage, congenital anomalies, preterm birth and differences in child neurodevelopment.

Based on this evidence, the study cautions that avoiding paracetamol due to inconclusive or misleading claims could cause greater harm than the medication itself.

Why The Lancet findings carry global weight

The conclusions gain added significance due to the standing of The Lancet as one of the world's most respected medical journals. Founded in 1823, the publication is known for its stringent editorial standards and its careful handling of politically sensitive and high-impact health issues. Research published in The Lancet is frequently referenced by governments, global health bodies and academic researchers, shaping public policy and clinical practice worldwide.

Medical bodies reaffirm existing guidance

By ruling out a causal link between paracetamol and neurodevelopmental disorders, the review reinforces long-standing guidance from major professional and regulatory organisations. These include the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, and the European Medicines Agency, all of which continue to recommend paracetamol as the first-line analgesic and antipyretic during pregnancy.

The authors stress that pregnant women should follow medical advice and use paracetamol as directed when clinically required, rather than avoiding it due to unsupported safety concerns.