For a long time, we have all been made to believe that acetaminophen, which is frequently marketed under the brand names Tylenol® and Paracetamol®, is the best pain reliever anyone needs to take when feeling little pain. Hence, it has become increasingly popular as one of the most commonly used painkillers in the United States. Since it has existed for so long, Tylenol has earned a special place in the pharmaceutical industry. Millions of people use it for various ailments. It is readily available in any supermarket or drugstore, so almost everyone keeps a bottle at home. About 50 million American adults (20 percent of the total adult population) regularly take Tylenol or another acetaminophen product.
According to a recent study, consistent use of acetaminophen may increase the risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and ASD. The study builds on previous studies on acetaminophen’s prenatal and postnatal use. The findings suggest that the drug may no longer be safe. Another study, released in the European Journal of Epidemiology in May 2021, revealed that children exposed to acetaminophen before birth had a 19 percent increased risk of autism.
Parents File Autism Class Action and Injury Lawsuits
Some parents of children with autism and ASD believe that their use of Tylenol played a role in their child’s condition. Many such families, with the assistance of legal experts like Attorney Russell J. Berkowitz of Berkowitz Hanna Malpractice & Injury Lawyers, have filed autism class action and injury lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson, the company that makes Tylenol. Petitions are also filed against generic acetaminophen manufacturers, including Costco, CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart, for not providing adequate warnings about the risks associated with using acetaminophen during pregnancy, leading to birth injuries. Other risk factors that lead to birth injuries include particular pelvic shapes of mothers that restrict delivery, heavy birth weight of infants, premature births, or unusual birth positions such as breech positions and buttocks-first positions amid labor.
In response to the growing number of Tylenol autism lawsuits, a new Multi-District Litigation (MDL) has been requested to coordinate the acetaminophen cases. In June 2022, a group of plaintiffs filed a motion with the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation requesting that all complaints be centralized before a single judge. Hence, more than 19 civil actions are arising from prenatal buying and using acetaminophen. A reputable attorney may be able to help you build your case.
Taking Precaution
Experts are still trying to figure out why autism is one of the quickest-growing developmental disorders in the United States. However, a recent consensus from top medical professionals warns that taking Tylenol or acetaminophen during pregnancy can increase the risk of autism. Hence, some preventive actions have been recommended to avoid the potential dangers of using Tylenol during pregnancy.
According to a statement from a group of experts from the United States, Scotland, the United Kingdom, Europe, Canada, Israel, Brazil, and Australia, the best preventive measure is for pregnant women to avoid using acetaminophen unless it is medically recommended.
The recommendation is in line with what is or ought to be the standard practice. This statement is a crucial reminder to healthcare professionals and patients to use Tylenol and acetaminophen appropriately.
The potential risks of acetaminophen should also be considered by those who are not pregnant. Professionals advise all of their patients only to take acetaminophen when necessary because it can cause liver damage or toxicity in non-pregnant people.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Tylenol has long been a trusted pain reliever, recent scientific research linking acetaminophen use during pregnancy to an increased risk of autism has led to growing concerns. As a result, many parents have taken legal action against the manufacturers of Tylenol, seeking justice for their children’s conditions. Health experts advise caution, recommending that pregnant women only use acetaminophen when medically necessary and that everyone should be mindful of the potential risks associated with overuse. It’s important to stay informed and consult with healthcare professionals before making decisions about using Tylenol or any other medication.