22 Jan 2026 • A meta-analysis found no association between paracetamol use during pregnancy and adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in children.

In an analysis spanning 43 cohort studies, prenatal exposure to paracetamol was not linked to increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (OR 0.98), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (OR 0.95), or intellectual disability (OR 0.93). Neurodevelopmental outcomes were comparable between children exposed in utero and those without exposure.

The findings provide reassurance amid ongoing safety concerns and support current recommendations that paracetamol, when taken as directed, remains a suitable first-line treatment for pain and fever during pregnancy.

Source: The Lancet | Read full story