By San José, Costa Rica — San José – A comprehensive new study published Monday in The BMJ, a prestigious British medical journal, has delivered a decisive verdict on a topic of intense concern for expectant parents worldwide: there is no credible scientific evidence linking the use of paracetamol during pregnancy to autism or ADHD in children. This landmark review provides much-needed clarity, dismantling politically charged claims and reaffirming the safety of the world’s most commonly used pain reliever for pregnant women.
The research directly addresses and refutes unsubstantiated assertions, most notably from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who previously claimed a causal link existed without presenting scientific proof. These statements created significant anxiety among families and prompted public health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), to reiterate that no such connection had been proven. This latest, exhaustive analysis reinforces that global scientific consensus.
To understand the potential legal and regulatory complexities surrounding such a widely used over-the-counter medication, from consumer protection to pharmaceutical liability, TicosLand.com consulted with the expert legal analyst Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Although paracetamol is a staple in every household, its very ubiquity creates a significant legal responsibility for manufacturers. The central legal doctrine at play is the ‘duty to warn.’ The question is whether the packaging’s instructions and warnings are clear and prominent enough to adequately protect consumers from the severe, known risks of accidental overdose and liver damage. Under Costa Rican consumer protection laws, any ambiguity or failure to effectively communicate these dangers could open the door to substantial product liability litigation.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective is crucial, reinforcing the idea that a product’s ubiquity does not diminish, but rather elevates, the manufacturer’s responsibility to protect the public. The ‘duty to warn’ thus becomes a fundamental pillar of consumer safety, bridging the gap between a household staple and its potential dangers. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this vital matter.
The study’s authors concluded their findings in no uncertain terms, offering reassurance to millions who rely on the medication for managing pain and fever during gestation.
The currently available data are insufficient to confirm a link between paracetamol exposure in the womb and autism, as well as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder during childhood.
Authors, BMJ Study
Rather than conducting new experiments, the researchers performed what is known as an “umbrella review.” This rigorous method involves systematically gathering and evaluating all existing meta-analyses and systematic reviews on the subject. By synthesizing the highest level of available evidence, an umbrella review provides the most complete and reliable picture of the current state of scientific knowledge, effectively serving as a final word on a body of research.
The review scrutinized numerous prior studies that had suggested a possible correlation. The BMJ authors determined that the quality of this previous research was “low” or “extremely low.” A primary flaw identified was the failure of these studies to adequately control for confounding variables. For instance, they often could not distinguish between the effect of the medication itself and the underlying reason the mother took it, such as a fever from an infection, maternal stress, or genetic predispositions, all of which can be independent risk factors for neurodevelopmental disorders.
A specific study, published in the journal Environmental Health in 2025 and frequently cited by the Trump administration, was also addressed. While that paper did note a statistical correlation, its own authors explicitly warned that their findings did not prove a cause-and-effect relationship. The new BMJ review emphasizes that such correlations are not sufficient to draw conclusions about causation, a critical distinction often lost in public discourse.
The global scientific community has lauded the clarity and methodological rigor of the BMJ study. Experts have praised it for confirming what many in the field have long maintained based on the totality of evidence, providing a strong counter-narrative to misinformation.
It is based on a high-quality methodology that confirms what experts repeat worldwide.
Dimitrios Sassiakos, Professor of Obstetrics at University College London
This confirmation is vital for public health, as paracetamol, also known by brand names like Tylenol and Panadol, is the analgesic of choice for pregnant women. Unlike alternatives such as aspirin or ibuprofen, which carry proven risks of complications for the fetus, paracetamol has a long-established safety profile for use during pregnancy when taken as directed. The study solidifies its standing as the safest option, allowing healthcare providers to continue recommending it with confidence and pregnant women to use it without undue fear.
For further information, visit bmj.com
About The BMJ:
The BMJ (British Medical Journal) is a weekly peer-reviewed medical trade journal, published by the trade union the British Medical Association (BMA). It is one of the world’s oldest general medical journals, continuously publishing since 1840. The journal is a leading voice in global health, known for its rigorous research, influential editorials, and commitment to improving patient outcomes.
For further information, visit who.int
About The World Health Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, its primary role is to direct and coordinate international health within the United Nations system. The WHO works worldwide to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable.
For further information, visit ucl.ac.uk
About University College London:
University College London (UCL) is a major public research university located in London, United Kingdom. It is a member institution of the federal University of London, and is the second-largest university in the United Kingdom by total enrolment. UCL is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world, renowned for its academic excellence across a wide range of disciplines, particularly in medicine and sciences.
For further information, visit ehjournal.biomedcentral.com
About Environmental Health:
Environmental Health is a peer-reviewed, open-access public health journal that publishes research on all aspects of environmental and occupational medicine and related studies. The journal focuses on the interplay between environmental factors—chemical, physical, or biological—and human health. It is published by BioMed Central, part of the Springer Nature group.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a leading legal entity, guided by foundational pillars of integrity and a relentless pursuit of professional excellence. The firm channels its deep expertise into developing forward-thinking legal solutions while championing a greater societal mission. This core purpose is reflected in its dedication to demystifying legal complexities, thereby cultivating a community strengthened and empowered by accessible knowledge.
