09/24/2025
All Kids Pediatrics & Dr. Mia Ben
Statement on Tylenol (Acetaminophen) and Autism
We know many families are seeing headlines about Tylenol (acetaminophen) and autism. Here’s what our clinic wants you to know:
1. What the FDA said (Sept 22, 2025):
The FDA announced it is initiating a safety label change for acetaminophen to reflect a possible association when used during pregnancy. This is not proof of causation; it’s a precaution based on mixed research. 
2. What major health agencies & experts say:
• The World Health Organization and the European Medicines Agency state the evidence for a link is inconsistent, and paracetamol/acetaminophen can be used in pregnancy when needed at the lowest effective dose. 
• A large Swedish study (2.4 million births) found no increased risk of autism or ADHD once family/genetic factors were accounted for. 
• ACOG (Ob-Gyns) affirms acetaminophen remains appropriate in pregnancy when clinically indicated. 
3. What this means for our families right now:
• Pregnant patients: If you need pain/fever relief, talk with your obstetric clinician. Untreated high fever can pose risks to pregnancy, and ibuprofen/aspirin are generally not recommended in late pregnancy. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time if acetaminophen is advised. 
• Children: When used as directed by weight and age, acetaminophen remains a safe first-line fever/pain medicine for kids. Always follow dosing instructions on the label or provided by your pediatrician. (If you’re unsure, call us.)
4. About lawsuits & headlines:
Court cases have raised questions, but federal multidistrict litigation was dismissed in 2024 and is under appeal; this legal process does not establish medical causation. Rely on your clinicians and established medical guidance over social media posts. 
5. Our bottom line:
• We do not recommend stopping a needed medicine based on headlines alone.
• Decisions in pregnancy should be individualized with your OB.
• For children, call us before switching medications or dosing differently.
If you have questions about acetaminophen for your child—or if you’re pregnant and unsure what’s best—please contact All Kids Pediatrics. We’re here to help you weigh benefits and risks for your situation.
— Dr. Mia Ben and the All Kids Pediatrics team
Key sources for parents who want to read more: FDA news release (Sept 22, 2025); WHO/EMA updates; JAMA 2024 Swedish cohort; ACOG statement; CDC overview on medicines in pregnancy.