In this episode, we explore the controversial discussion around aacetaminophen (Tylenol) use during pregnancy and its possible links to autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent expressions. We draw on evidence based medicine, and examine what the science actually shows… And what it doesn’t. We also unpack the public debate, fueled by figures like RFK Junior, separating data from opinion and clarifying the strength and limitations of existing research.

My goal is to help you discern between agenda-driven rhetoric, misguided misinformation and appropriate attribution of data. To help you understand the difference between correlation and causation. If you’re not familiar with the hierarchy of evidence based medicine, that’s terrific because the point of this episode is to help you understand the difference between different kinds of research and the different value that specific kind of studies hold. This episode breaks it down, because everyone deserves to have the tools to be able to discern and process information when someone they are expected to get their information from says “studies show”.

This episode is not medical advice but an educational look at how evidence is framed, debated, and applied in both mainstream medicine and public discourse.

If you’ve ever wondered whether headlines linking Tylenol, pregnancy, autism, and adhd reflect fact or fear, this episode will help you navigate the noise with clarity and compassion.

Axelsson O, Hållstam A, Lundholm C, et al. Acetaminophen use during pregnancy and risk of autism and intellectual disability: Nationwide cohort and sibling control study. JAMA. 2024;331(4):309-319. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.28239.

Bauer AZ, Swan SH, Kriebel D, Liew Z, Taylor HS, Bornehag CG, Jensen TK, Olesen C, Wolff MS, Engel SM, et al.

Paracetamol use during pregnancy — a call for precautionary action. Nat Rev Endocrinol. 2021 Dec;17(12):757-766. doi:10.1038/s41574-021-00553-7.