A large new study has found that taking paracetamol during pregnancy does not increase the risk of autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or intellectual disabilities in children, helping settle a long-running debate over the drug’s safety.
The findings come amid renewed public discussion after comments made in September 2025 by former US President Donald Trump, who claimed paracetamol was “no good” and urged pregnant women to avoid it. At the time, the US administration suggested the medication could raise the risk of autism, prompting concern among expectant mothers.
The latest comprehensive review, published in a leading medical journal, found no evidence to support those claims. Researchers analysed data from 43 studies, including the largest and most methodologically robust research available. The analysis covered more than 262,000 children assessed for autism, over 335,000 for ADHD and around 406,000 for intellectual disability.
According to the researchers, paracetamol use during pregnancy was not linked to an increased risk of any of these neurodevelopmental conditions. The results remained consistent even when the analysis focused on studies with longer follow-up periods, low risk of bias and sibling comparisons, which are considered a strong method for accounting for genetic and family-related factors.
Autism spectrum disorder is a condition related to brain development that affects communication, social interaction and behaviour, with symptoms ranging widely in severity. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by difficulties with attention control, impulsivity and hyperactivity, often beginning in childhood and sometimes continuing into adulthood.
Some earlier studies had suggested a possible association between prenatal paracetamol exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders. However, the authors of the new review noted that those findings were likely influenced by bias and confounding factors, such as underlying maternal pain, fever, illness or genetic predisposition, rather than a direct effect of the medication itself.
The researchers warned that avoiding paracetamol altogether during pregnancy could carry its own risks. Untreated pain or fever in pregnant women has been associated with complications such as miscarriage, preterm birth and congenital abnormalities.
Experts involved in the study said the evidence supports existing medical guidance that paracetamol, when used as directed, remains a safe option for managing pain and fever during pregnancy. They added that the findings should reassure expectant parents and help put an end to ongoing concerns about the drug’s impact on child development.
Disclaimer: This content is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Pregnant individuals should consult their doctor or a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
