Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is often considered one of the safest and most commonly used drugs during pregnancy due to its antipyretic and analgesic qualities. Although it has conventionally been considered safe at recommended doses, its possible effects on fetal neurodevelopment have recently attracted greater scientific interest. Several observational and cohort-based studies performed over the past decade have suggested that prenatal exposure to paracetamol may be associated with an increased risk for neurodevelopmental disorders, namely Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This review summarises the literature on this emerging topic, examines the biological mechanisms that may underlie these associations, and highlights key methodological considerations. Even though large cohort studies and meta-analyses suggest that frequent or prolonged maternal use of paracetamol during pregnancy may be associated with higher rates of ASD- or ADHD-related outcomes, these findings must be interpreted cautiously because of confounding variables, self-reported exposure data, and the intrinsic limitations of observational research. To elucidate causality and direct clinical decision-making, more excellent, mechanistic, and long-term research is still necessary. Prudent and judicious use of paracetamol during pregnancy—limited to the shortest necessary duration—remains advised until more conclusive evidence becomes available.
Keywords: Acetaminophen, ADHD, ASD, Neurodevelopment, Prenatal exposure.
How to cite this article: Kurup PR, R S, The Possible Link Between Pregnancy-Related Paracetamol Use and the Risk of Autism and ADHD: A Narrative Review. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(2s): 251-256; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.251-256