On August 16, 2025, a study by researchers from Harvard and the University of Massachusetts found that paracetamol (also called acetaminophen), a common painkiller used by over 50% of pregnant women worldwide, might increase the risk of autism and ADHD in babies. The study, which looked at 46 studies and data from over 100,000 people, showed 27 studies found links to neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs).
Paracetamol linked to autism? That’s a big warning!
How It Affects Babies
The study, led by Andrea A. Baccarelli from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, said paracetamol crosses the placenta and may cause oxidative stress, mess with hormones, or change how a baby’s brain develops. This could explain the higher risk of ADHD, autism, or other NDDs in kids whose moms used it during pregnancy. A 2017 study found a bigger ADHD risk if moms used paracetamol for 22–28 days, and a February 2025 study saw higher ADHD odds in girls.
Paracetamol messing with baby brains? That’s scary!
Use It Carefully
Paracetamol is still the safest painkiller for pregnant women compared to other drugs, used for headaches, pain, or fever. But the study says women should be careful, especially since it might affect babies’ brain development. Baccarelli urged, “Pregnant women should limit paracetamol use to protect their babies’ brains.” He also called for more studies to confirm the risks and figure out how much is too much.
Limit paracetamol in pregnancy? Better safe than sorry!
What’s Next
More research is needed to know exactly how much paracetamol is risky and why it affects some kids more. Doctors might start warning pregnant women to use it less, just like the stalking study pushed for better health awareness. Are you surprised by this paracetamol news? What do you think pregnant women should do? Tell me!