Health Canada said there is no definitive evidence that taking the painkiller Tylenol as directed during pregnancy can cause the fetus to develop autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders. Tylenol, whose scientific name is acetaminophen, is a commonly used pain reliever and fever-reducing drug. According to Health Canada, millions of Canadians have used acetaminophen safely for decades, including during pregnancy and breastfeeding; it also indicates that fever and pain in pregnant women, if not treated, may pose a risk to the fetus, but acetaminophen should be used at the lowest effective dose and shortest course of treatment.

Health Canada said there is no definitive evidence that taking the painkiller Tylenol as directed during pregnancy can cause the fetus to develop autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders. Tylenol, whose scientific name is acetaminophen, is a commonly used pain reliever and fever-reducing drug. According to Health Canada, millions of Canadians have used acetaminophen safely for decades, including during pregnancy and breastfeeding; it also indicates that fever and pain in pregnant women, if not treated, may pose a risk to the fetus, but acetaminophen should be used at the lowest effective dose and shortest course of treatment.