For years, one of the most common medications used during pregnancy became the center of a growing autism controversy.
Studies, headlines, lawsuits and social media posts raised concerns that acetaminophen — better known by the brand name Tylenol — might increase the risk of autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children. The claims spread rapidly through parenting groups, advocacy circles and online communities searching for answers about rising autism diagnoses.
The theory seemed to fit a familiar pattern. Autism rates were increasing. Parents wanted answers. Researchers were investigating possible environmental factors. Attorneys were filing lawsuits. Social media was amplifying every new study. Before long, many people had moved beyond discussing whether a possible link existed and instead began treating the claim as established fact.
Now, some of the largest and most rigorous studies conducted on the issue have reached a very different conclusion.
Researchers analyzi…
