By Osborne & Francis
October 25, 2023

Tylenol Use During Pregnancy May Cause Autism and ADHD

Recently, the pain reliever Tylenol has made headlines because some studies indicate it may significantly increase the risk of autism or ADHD in children who are exposed in utero. Parents are now suing the makers of Tylenol and other generic acetaminophen-based drugs for the costs associated with these health conditions, including medical bills, emotional distress, and reduced earning capacity.

The product liability lawyers of Osborne & Francis are aiding plaintiffs in filing Tylenol autism lawsuits to recover the value of their damages and hold drug makers accountable. You can reach us at (561) 678-0156 or contact our offices in Boca Raton or Orlando to schedule a free consultation with our team. 

What is Autism?

Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by difficulty understanding social cues, a preference for routine or repetition, and sensory issues. Autism encompasses a wide range of presentations, but for most people with autism, it impacts learning and communication.

Some children may have low support needs in one area while requiring significant assistance in others, and it varies by person. People who are autistic can benefit greatly from early intervention programs such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and medication. 

What Causes Autism?

While the medical community has not identified a singular cause, there are several risk factors associated with autism, including:

  • Birth complications
  • Older parents
  • Having a sibling or parent with autism
  • Environmental factors in the womb
  • Pollution 

Autism is a complex condition with a myriad of presentations, so it follows that the cause is likely some combination of genetic and environmental factors. Plaintiffs in the Tylenol autism lawsuits argue that medical evidence supports their claims that being exposed to acetaminophen in utero resulted in their child’s autism diagnosis.

Tylenol Use During Pregnancy Has Been Linked to an Increase in Autism and ADHD

Recent medical studies have raised concerns over Tylenol and generic brand acetaminophen leading to autism and ADHD in children who are exposed to it while in utero. Until now, Tylenol was seen as the safe option for pregnant women. 

Medical Studies Linked Tylenol to Autism

A 2018 study that examined over 130,000 pairs of mothers and children found that children who were significantly exposed to acetaminophen in utero had a 20% greater chance of developing autism and a 30% higher chance of developing Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

These findings are backed by a 2019 National Health Institute study that compared acetaminophen levels in the umbilical cords of nearly 1,000 babies and looked at rates of ADHD and autism among this group. Based on their analysis, they concurred with previous studies that warn pregnant women about using Tylenol.

Acetaminophen Manufacturers Failed to Warn Parents of the Risk

The basis of the product liability lawsuits against the makers of Tylenol and generic acetaminophen is that they failed in their duty to warn consumers of the increased risk of autism and ADHD when a child is exposed in the womb. If parents had been aware of the danger, they could have chosen to explore other pain-relief options.

The cruel irony is that acetaminophen-based pain relievers are recommended by doctors to pregnant women instead of other forms of painkillers, like ibuprofen. Women who were encouraged to take Tylenol while pregnant may feel betrayed, and rightfully so. 

Who is Eligible to File a Tylenol Autism Lawsuit?

If you regularly took Tylenol while pregnant or used it in large doses while pregnant and your child has been diagnosed with autism or ADHD, you may be entitled to recover damages. As the plaintiff, you bear the burden of proof in the claim you bring. Essentially you have to prove that exposure to Tylenol in the womb more likely than not caused your child’s autism in order to be able to claim compensation for damages. 

To begin with, you have to show that the makers of Tylenol and generic acetaminophen owed you a duty of care as a consumer. Further, you must be able to make the argument that they breached that duty by failing to warn parents of the increased risk of autism and ADHD. 

The next obstacle is showing that the makers’ failure to provide a warning label resulted in your child’s autism. Finally, you need to document the value of the damages resulting from your child’s autism in order to obtain compensation.

Why Should I Choose Osborne & Francis to Represent Me?

Hiring a product liability attorney is critical to protecting your right to recover damages. At Osborne & Francis, we have a strong track record of settling claims for our injured clients. For almost 10 years, we have provided capable, diligent service, with exceptional results.

Clients know that they can rely on our skilled team to stand up to stubborn insurance companies in order to secure a fair settlement. The product liability lawyers of Osborne & Francis are formidable negotiators who will fight to secure a settlement that meets your needs. Our ability to get results has earned us a reputation among our clients that we take great pride in.

Osborne and Francis Will Fight to Get You and Your Child the Compensation You Deserve

The Tylenol autism lawyers of Osborne & Francis have the experience and expertise to be an invaluable asset to your case. We can provide insightful legal counsel, serve as your advocate during negotiations, and fiercely protect your right to seek compensation for your damages.

You will also have the benefit of our trial experience. If negotiations stall, we are fully prepared to mount a product liability lawsuit and take your case to court. As your personal injury lawyers, we will go above and beyond to recover compensation for your physical, mental, and financial losses.

You can reach us at (561) 678-0156 or contact our offices in Boca Raton or Orlando to schedule a free consultation with our team. We encourage you to reach out as soon as possible to avoid issues with the statute of limitations. The product liability attorneys of Osborne & Francis look forward to discussing your Tylenol autism to determine how we can best support you through the personal injury claims process.

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