At the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), we are committed to advancing the understanding of autism and supporting individuals and families with accurate, evidence-based information. We also know that stigma about autism is harmful to mental health, and we are actively working to break down those barriers. Public conversations about autism must be rooted in respect, accuracy, and inclusion.
The U.S. government raised concerns about a possible link between acetaminophen (commonly known by the brand name Tylenol) use in pregnancy and autism. We recognize that these stories may increase negative emotions for autistic people and their families and friends, while also causing many to worry.
What the evidence shows:
- Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with many contributing genetic and environmental factors.
- Large, rigorous studies, including sibling-comparison research involving millions of children, have not found evidence that acetaminophen causes autism.
- While some observational studies suggest associations, these results are limited by confounding factors such as the underlying health conditions (e.g., fever, infection) that led to medication use. Correlation does not prove causation.
Our message to the community:
- Occasional, medically guided use of acetaminophen during pregnancy is again not proven to cause autism.
- Decisions about any medication in pregnancy should always be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.
- At CAMH, our focus is on supporting autistic individuals and their families through assessment, clinical care, research, and advocacy. We care, and we value you.
Autism is not a condition to be attributed to a single cause. It is a spectrum of neurodevelopmental differences that deserves understanding, acceptance, and support. CAMH continues to focus on providing specialized mental health services for autistic individuals and their families, advancing research, and sharing resources to improve care across Canada.