Paracetamol and Autism: Between Evidence, Controversy, and Information Overload

An international debate has arisen regarding the use of paracetamol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy and its potential association with neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The controversy has been fueled by contradictory information from media, politics, social networks, and regulatory agencies, generating uncertainty among pregnant women and their families.

This phenomenon reflects an infodemic, where excessive and conflicting information spreads rapidly and may lead to harmful health behaviors, such as rejecting paracetamol for fever or pain management.

The purpose of this communication is to clarify information and provide reliable, evidence-based guidance supported by official health organizations. Paracetamol, known commercially as Tylenol, Panadol, and Dolex, continues to be widely used worldwide and is considered a safe and effective treatment for fever and pain during pregnancy, supported by decades of clinical experience.