Separating Fact from Fear: The Science Behind Acetaminophen and Autism Concerns
The debate over claims linking Tylenol (acetaminophen) use during pregnancy to autism has caused confusion among patients and caregivers. ECRI conducted a comprehensive clinical evidence assessment to evaluate the validity of these claims and provide a clear conclusion for healthcare professionals and the public.
Evidence Conclusion
Available evidence does not indicate that acetaminophen causes or contributes to neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism or ADHD.
ECRI and most clinical experts agree that current evidence does not warrant restrictions on acetaminophen use to treat pain and fever during pregnancy, especially considering that no suitable alternatives are available and that untreated fever poses significant risks to pregnancy.
Download the full evidence report
“At ECRI, we are concerned that confusion around these claims may influence the decisions of expectant mothers. Untreated fever during pregnancy carries real risks for both mom and baby,” said Marcus Schabacker, MD, PhD, President and CEO at ECRI. “ECRI is committed to providing evidence-based insights that care providers and patients can trust – just as we did when the safety of the COVID-19 vaccine was wrongfully called into question for pregnant women.”
“Clinicians nationwide are having to spend more time and energy battling misinformation causing confusion in their patient populations, compounding challenges they already face on the frontlines of hospitals and clinics,” added Schabacker. “Our responsibility is to follow the evidence wherever it leads and ensure patients receive care rooted in fact, not fear.”
Resources: Providing Quality Care for Patients with Autism
ECRI is providing these additional resources, in combination with the clinical evidence assessment above, to support clinicians and care leaders in providing quality care to patients with autism.
Take Action: Strategies to Promote Equitable Healthcare for Autistic Patients
This ECRI report provides a guide for healthcare organizations striving to improve equity and quality of care for autistic patients, a population now estimated to include 1 in 31 American children and over 5.4 million adults. The report outlines actionable, evidence-based strategies across four key domains—culture and leadership, patient and family engagement, workforce safety, and organizational learning—to foster more inclusive, sensory-friendly, and person-centered healthcare environments.
Download strategies for equitable care for autistic patients
Sensory Integration Therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Sensory integration therapy (SIT) is a form of occupational therapy intended to help children with sensory processing deficits, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), adjust and respond to their environment. ECRI conducted a clinical evidence assessment on this therapy, which showed that SIT may help children with ASD develop motor and social skills. There’s no evidence it reduces problem behaviors typical of ASD and the level of confidence in the evidence was low due to study limitations.
Download sensory integration therapy report
About ECRI and Clinical Evidence Assessments (CEAs):
ECRI is designated an Evidence-based Practice Center by the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and a federally certified Patient Safety Organization by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. ECRI’s clinical evidence assessments (CEAs) give an at-a-glance, unbiased view of the safety and effectiveness of healthcare interventions and treatments. The reports inform clinical quality improvement and patient safety initiatives and deliver insights that help decision-makers identify safe, evidence-based interventions. Learn more.
Contact: Yvonne Rhodes, Associate Director of Strategic Communications & Operations, at YRhodes@ECRI.org.