What Do We Really Know About Tylenol and Autism?

Autism rates in the US have been climbing, with one in 31 children now affected. This rise has sparked a hunt for possible causes, from genes to the environment. Recently, attention has turned to acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol, and its potential role in autism development. A report is expected soon from the Department of Health and Human Services. It is said to explore the connection between taking acetaminophen during pregnancy and autism. However, the details are still under wraps, and any claims about its findings are just guesses at this point. So, what does the science say? Studies have given mixed results. A large study in Sweden involving nearly 2. 5 million kids found no direct link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism or ADHD. But another review of 46 studies suggested a possible increased risk. The researchers think acetaminophen might cause oxidative stress, mess with hormones, or even alter genes, affecting fetal brain development. Still, they say more research is needed to be sure. Some experts believe any link might be because of the conditions that led the mother to take the medication in the first place. For now, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says acetaminophen is safe for pregnant women, but they advise checking with a doctor before taking any medicine. The company that makes Tylenol, Kenvue, also stands by its product, saying there’s no proven link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism. Despite this, the company’s shares took a hit after the news broke, dropping more than 14%.