Acetaminophen Use in Pregnancy Linked to ADHD and Autism

According to a study published in JAMA Psychiatry, exposure to acetaminophen in the womb may increase a child’s risk for attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

According to the National Institutes of Health, Researchers analyzed data from a long-term study of factors influencing pregnancy and child development. They collected umbilical cord blood from 996 births and measured the amount of acetaminophen and two of its byproducts in each sample. These amounts were classified into thirds, from lowest to highest exposure. Compared to the lowest, the middle third was associated with about 2.26 times the risk for ADHD. The highest third of exposure was associated with 2.86 times the risk. Similarly, ASD risk was higher for those in the middle third and highest third of exposure.

The number of lawsuits is growing against manufacturers of acetaminophen-based drugs. Lawsuits allege that information regarding the link between autism and acetaminophen has been withheld from consumers.

If you used acetaminophen during pregnancy and your child was diagnosed with ASD or ADHD, or if you were diagnosed with either of these conditions and were exposed to acetaminophen prenatally, you may be entitled to compensation. 

Please call the experts at Inserra Kelley Sewell today for a free consultation.