North Carolina Tylenol Autism Lawsuit

North Carolina Tylenol Autism Lawsuit

 

If you’re a parent or considering a family of your own, you’re likely aware of the increased diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Many factors go into this uptick in autism and ADHD diagnoses, with concerned parents and family members looking for answers and whatever help is available.

Tylenol (acetaminophen) has recently made headlines with regard to autism and ADHD. Scientific research suggests that pregnant women who took Tylenol have an increased risk of having children who are later diagnosed with autism or ADHD. Lawsuits are being filed against Kenvue, the maker of Tylenol, for failing to provide warnings about this potential risk.

If you are the parent of a child diagnosed with autism or ADHD, you may be able to take legal action against Kenvue. If you would like to learn more about filing a lawsuit against the makers of Tylenol, contact our North Carolina law firm today. The team at Ricci Law Firm Injury Lawyers is ready to listen to you.

About Acetaminophen

Also known as paracetamol in other countries, acetaminophen is a non-opioid medication commonly used as a pain reliever and to treat fevers.

Acetaminophen is probably best known for pain relief since many people take acetaminophen to treat headaches, migraines, cramps, backaches, arthritis, toothaches, and post-surgical discomfort.

Acetaminophen was not used on humans until 1887, and it was not marketed or distributed for use until the 1950s. The drug eventually became commonplace during the 1970s.

About Tylenol and Its Development

Introduced in 1955, Tylenol is a brand-name pain reliever with acetaminophen as an active ingredient. It was originally developed and marketed by McNeil Laboratories as a fever medication for children. McNeil Laboratories was acquired by Johnson & Johnson in 1959.

Kenvue, the current owner of the Tylenol brand, was once a division of Johnson & Johnson. Kenvue was spun out into its own company in early 2022.

Common Side Effects Associated with Tylenol and Acetaminophen

The most common side effects associated with taking Tylenol include:

  • Nausea
  • Upset stomach
  • Lack of appetite
  • Fatigue
  • Drowsiness
  • Headache

Potential Health Risks Associated with Tylenol and Acetaminophen

Since its initial development, researchers have been cautious about the potential health risks and toxicity associated with acetaminophen use. The most common and agreed-upon health risks associated with Tylenol include:

  • Liver damage
  • Kidney damage
  • Accidental overdose
  • Adverse skin reactions

Scientists and medical experts have also noted that acetaminophen can cause increased liver toxicity if someone takes the medication and also consumes alcoholic beverages.

It’s important to follow instructions on labels for recommended use, and to discuss taking Tylenol or other acetaminophen medications with your doctor just to be safe.

The above health concerns bring us to new discussions about the role of Tylenol in prenatal development and later diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and ADHD in children.

Growing Concerns About Autism and Tylenol Use

In the last decade or so, multiple studies have explored the possible links between Tylenol use during pregnancy and a child’s later diagnosis of autism or ADHD.

With the increase in autism and ADHD diagnoses, greater scrutiny has been placed on numerous factors of modern life that could contribute to changes in fetal health, fetal development, and early childhood development that lead to an ASD or ADHD diagnosis.

We can understand the concern among North Carolina parents and their children. When answers about autism and ADHD aren’t readily available, it’s prudent to examine all potential variables in contemporary life.

Understanding Autism and ADHD in Children

We’ve mentioned autism and ADHD multiple times, but we must define these conditions so we’re all on the same page.

What Is Autism?

Autism spectrum disorder is a type of neurodevelopmental condition that affects how someone perceives the world,  interacts with others, and communicates or expresses themselves.

In many cases, the signs of ASD appear during childhood, though people may not be formally diagnosed until they are an adolescent or an adult.

Autism is considered a spectrum since there is a wide variety of ways the condition manifests. Even though autistic people share certain characteristics, no two autistic people are alike. Common characteristics of people on the autism spectrum include:

  • Difficulty interpreting vocal inflection and facial expressions
  • Feelings of distress when something is different or a routine changes
  • Obsessive focus on a particular topic or interest
  • Hypersensitivity to light or to sound
  • Evident or pronounced stimming behaviors

Do We Know What Causes Autism?

We still do not know what causes autism. There is a wide variety of interconnected genetic and environmental factors that could affect a person’s brain development. Scientists continue to study ASD, looking for any possible causes and contributing factors.

What Is ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is a type of neurodevelopmental condition that affects a person’s focus, impulse control, activity levels, executive function, and time management skills.

Much like autism, the signs of ADHD appear during childhood, though people may not be formally diagnosed until they are an adolescent or an adult.

There are three main types of ADHD:

  • Inattentive ADHD is characterized by difficulty paying attention, issues staying on task, problems remaining organized, and struggling to follow instructions.
  • Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD is characterized by acting without thinking, restlessness, fidgetiness, blurting out thoughts, and being extremely talkative.
  • Combined ADHD involves some combination of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive characteristics.

Do We Know What Causes ADHD?

Like autism, we still do not know what causes ADHD. There is a wide variety of interacting biological, environmental, and neurological factors that need to be considered.

How Do Autism and ADHD Affect North Carolina Families?

If you are a parent with a child on the autism spectrum or a child with ADHD, you know how challenging things can be on a day-to-day basis. Families with autistic children or children with ADHD often experience:

  • Communication Challenges: Children on the spectrum or with ADHD may have difficulties communicating with relatives and friends. This means interpreting the needs of others and expressing their own needs. It might take time before a child on the spectrum develops speech and can verbalize their thoughts.
  • Behavioral Challenges: Children on the spectrum or with ADHD may be prone to meltdowns and tantrums because they are misunderstood or unable to convey their thoughts. These children might be especially sensitive to any changes in routine and certain sensory triggers.
  • Educational Challenges: Children on the spectrum or with ADHD could face challenges at school. These kids may need certain accommodations, tutoring, additional attention from teachers, and additional support simply given the way their brains are wired and the way they interpret the world.
  • Financial Strain: For parents and guardians, the financial toll can be significant. You may need to pay for speech therapy, medical screenings and testing, behavioral therapy, and special caregivers for childcare. Parents may also have to take time off from work to dedicate to raising their child, which can be a major strain on a household’s finances.
  • Emotional Strain: Raising a child with special needs can be extremely difficult on your mental health. You may feel guilty that you aren’t doing enough for your child, anxious about your child’s future, and may feel burned out with all you have to do in a given day while trying to be the best parent you can be.

This is just the surface of what these families are going through. It makes sense why families are looking for answers and any support they can get.

Is Tylenol Safe for Pregnant Women to Take?

Tylenol can be safe for pregnant women to take as a pain reliever and to reduce fever as long as they take the lowest possible dose and only take Tylenol for a brief period of time. It’s important that pregnant women consult their OB-GYN before taking any kind of medication. This allows medical professionals to account for the mother’s health and the health of their unborn child.

Even though this is the prevailing advice of the medical community, there are potential risks that need to be considered.

White House Shares Public Warning About Autism and Tylenol

On September 22, 2025, the White House held a press conference voicing concerns about the potential link between Tylenol use during pregnancy and later diagnosis of autism and ADHD in children.

In a statement from the White House, the Trump administration issued new health guidance for pregnant women taking acetaminophen as a precautionary measure.

Scientific Research Into the Connections Between Autism and Tylenol

Many of the studies cited by the current administration and concerns parents note links and correlations between Tylenol use in pregnancy and later autism and ADHD diagnosis.

An August 2025 study in BMC Environmental Health analyzed results from 46 previous worldwide studies. In their comprehensive analysis, researchers found evidence of an association between acetaminophen exposure during pregnancy and increased incidence of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism and ADHD. There is also a 2020 study published in JAMA Psychiatry that cites a similar association between in utero acetaminophen exposure and later diagnosis of ADHD and autism.

Does Tylenol Cause Autism or ADHD?

While studies have shown a possible link or correlation between acetaminophen use and autism and ADHD diagnosis, there is no study that suggests acetaminophen is a direct cause of these neurodevelopmental conditions. It may feel like splitting hairs to some, but association and correlation are not the same as causation.

However, the science is still evolving, and the current debate within the medical community is sure to lead to additional research into the matter. A statement from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai noted that high-quality studies may be able to identify a link between autism and prenatal acetaminophen exposure.

As our understanding of these issues continues to evolve, we will continue to keep North Carolina families informed.

Can I File a Lawsuit Against the Makers of Tylenol?

Potentially, yes. If you are a parent of a child who’s on the spectrum or diagnosed with ADHD, you may be able to file a claim against Kenvue for their failure to warn consumers about this danger.

Many concerned parents and families nationwide have sought damages from Kenvue to address their experiences as well as the needs of their children.

What Damages Can I Seek If I File a Lawsuit Against Kenvue?

The damages in a Tylenol autism/ADHD lawsuit are numerous. You may be able to seek compensation for:

  • The cost of medical treatment and doctor/specialist visits
  • The cost of speech, occupational, and behavioral therapy
  • The cost of tutors and other educational services
  • The cost of counseling/therapy for parents, children, and other family members
  • The loss of earnings due to a parent or both parents taking on additional childcare roles
  • The pain, suffering, and emotional distress associated with these situations

During a consultation, your attorney can help you understand the true value of your legal claim and the various ways your life and your child’s life have been affected.

How Can a Lawyer Help with My Tylenol Autism Case?

A skilled North Carolina attorney can assist you in preparing a lawsuit against the makers of Tylenol. During the consultation process, you can share your family’s story and the many ways your lives have been affected. Your attorney can then let you know the necessary documentation to gather and start constructing your case.

These lawsuits against Tylenol are developing, so your lawyer will be sure to keep you updated about new studies and the progress of claims made against Kenvue.

Having a trusted lawyer on your side means you’ll have the stability and support you need to see the case through and seek the compensation your family deserves.

How Can I Learn More About Suing the Makers of Tylenol?

You likely have additional questions about Tylenol and its links to autism and ADHD. The best way to learn more is to discuss your situation with a qualified attorney. Our law offices are ready to discuss the struggles of North Carolina families and potential legal remedies through a Tylenol lawsuit.

To request a consultation with compassionate lawyers who can assist you in filing a Tylenol lawsuit, contact our North Carolina law offices today.