Autistica, the UK’s leading autism research and campaigning charity, has published a response to recent media coverage linking paracetamol use in pregnancy with autism.
Key messages:
- Pregnant individuals should continue to follow NHS guidance and seek advice from qualified clinicians. Media headlines should not drive changes in behaviour.
- There is currently no rigorous research evidence that any medicine or supplement causes or prevents autism.
- The best available studies show that using paracetamol as recommended during pregnancy does not increase the likelihood of autism, ADHD, or learning disabilities.
- Claims that Leucovorin can treat autistic traits are not supported by robust evidence. Existing studies are small-scale and inconclusive.
You can read the full statement on the Autistica website.
