A groundbreaking study published in the journal JAMA has debunked previous claims linking acetaminophen, commonly found in Tylenol, to heightened risks of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability in children born to mothers who used the medication during pregnancy.
Examining records of approximately 2.5 million children born in Sweden between 1995 and 2019, the study utilized a robust statistical model and sibling analysis to scrutinize the association between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and neurodevelopmental outcomes.
While the initial statistical model hinted at a marginal increase in risk for the exposed group, the sibling analysis, which controls for genetic and environmental factors, revealed no evidence of elevated risk. This compelling finding underscores the importance of sibling analyses in clinical research, offering a clearer understanding of the true impact of prenatal exposures.
Dr. Eric Brenner, an expert not involved in the study, praised its design and scale, affirming the safety of acetaminophen use during pregnancy based on these results.
These findings challenge recent studies and recommendations cautioning against acetaminophen use during pregnancy. While previous research and statements raised concerns, the new study attributes any observed associations to confounding factors, emphasizing the complexity of interpreting such data.
Contrary to expectations, the study found no increased risk associated with other painkillers like aspirin, aspirin even showing a decreased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders. However, further investigation is warranted to understand this unexpected finding fully.
Despite the reassurance provided by this study, caution remains essential in pregnancy medication usage. Consulting healthcare professionals for guidance on prescription and over-the-counter medications is advised to ensure the health and well-being of both mothers and babies.
As Dr. Yalda Afshar, an obstetrics and gynecology expert, notes, this study offers much-needed reassurance to pregnant individuals considering acetaminophen use while underscoring the importance of informed decision-making guided by healthcare providers.
