Specifically, research from Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public analyzed data from the Boston Birth Cohort. The Boston Birth Cohort is a long-term study of factors influencing pregnancy and child development.
Through measuring the amount of acetaminophen and two of its byproducts in samples collected from umbilical cord blood, researchers found that, on average, by the time children were 8.9 years old, 6.6% were diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Further, the authors of the study classified the amount of acetaminophen and its by-products into thirds, from lowest to highest. Compared to children exposed to the least amount of acetaminophen in utero, those with middle-third exposure were 2 times more likely to develop autism. Similarly, those in the highest exposure group were 3 times as likely to develop autism.
The 2019 study concluded that the results support previous studies linking acetaminophen exposure in the womb to autism and underscored the need for additional research.
Is Tylenol/Acetaminophen safe during pregnancy?
While acetaminophen in low doses is generally considered safe for pregnancy, health professionals have long warned about prolonged use of acetaminophen during pregnancy. The threshold for Tylenol Autism Lawsuits is 30 days of use. Long-term use of acetaminophen and autism is still being examined. The results may take years to become available.Several risks come from an untreated fever during pregnancy. If you are running a fever or suffering in pain, consult with your doctor about the dangers of acetaminophen during pregnancy.
What Neurological Issues can a Child Develop from Tylenol use during pregnancy?
Studies have consistently concluded that acetaminophen use during pregnancy may increase the possibility of an autism diagnosis.
Scientists and health professionals around the world indicate Tylenol use may contribute to the onset of disorders and symptoms such as:
- Autism
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Language Delays
- Oppositional Defiant Disorder
- Conduct Disorder
- Decreased Executive Function
- Decreased IQ levels
If your child was diagnosed with any of the above, it’s worth consulting with a Montana Tylenol Autism Lawyer.
Why is Autism on the Rise?
There are several theories on why autism is one of the fastest-growing developmental disorders in the United States. Autism can be the effect of environmental factors, as well genetics, maternal characteristics and more. According to the National Institute on Mental Health, autism affects about 1 in 44 eight-year-old children.
The Tylenol/Autism Mass Action Litigation
Thousands of children and parents affected by autism, ADHD, and other negative diagnoses because of Tylenol or acetaminophen have already filed claims. The lawsuits allege the corporations failed to issue a warning that using the store-brand drug during pregnancy could cause the child to develop autism or ADHD.
In June 2022, a motion was filed asking the JPML Court to consolidate 19 cases into multidistrict litigation before one judge in order to expedite the proceedings. Since then, more than 30 related actions have been filed.
In September 2022, multidistrict litigation was granted.
In November 2022, the first hearings against Johnson & Johnson and multiple retailers were heard. The defendants named in the Tylenol autism lawsuits include:
- Costco Wholesale Corporation
- CVS Pharmacy, Inc.
- Rite Aid Corporation
- Safeway
- Target Corporation
- Walgreens Company
- Walmart Inc.
While the lawsuits are at an early stage, the attorneys representing those affected are encouraged and impressed by the way the judgeis handling the case and claims.
Who Can bring a Tylenol Autism ADHD Claim?
You may be eligible to file a Tylenol autism claim and pursue compensation if you used Tylenol or acetaminophen during your pregnancy and your child was subsequently diagnosed with ASD or ASD and ADHD.
However, additional information may be needed from you to prove and support your claim:
- Why was Tylenol or acetaminophen used?
- Was Tylenol or acetaminophen used during the second and third trimesters, and how frequently?
- What was the dose taken?
- How was the baby delivered (c-section, vaginal birth, etc.)?
- Did the childbirth result in a loss of oxygen?
- Did the childbirth result in any type of injury to the child?
- Is the child regularly taking medication for autism spectrum disorder?
- Does the child have an IEP, 504, or other accommodation for any condition other than autism?
- Has either parent been diagnosed with autism?
Factors That May Disqualify Someone from Filing a Tylenol Autism Lawsuit
- No diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder or ASD in addition to ADHD
- Mother ingested fewer than 10 doses of Tylenol or generic acetaminophen during pregnancy
- Mother suffered from any of the following: gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension, or any type of infection or fever during pregnancy that required hospitalization
- Mother used any type of SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, typically used as antidepressants) during pregnancy
- Mother was over the age of 39 at the time of giving birth
- Mother consumed alcohol, tobacco, or any illegal drug during pregnancy
- Mother has a previous child that was diagnosed with autism and did not use Tylenol or acetaminophen during that pregnancy
- Mother gave birth before 26 weeks of pregnancy
- Child was born before 2005 (are over 18) or after March 26, 2020 (are under 3)
- Pregnancy and/or childbirth occurred in Michigan
- Child has been diagnosed with any of the following: Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, Tourette syndrome, or tuberous sclerosis
Heenan & Cook represents dozens of affected Tylenol Autism clients. Because we are in Montana, we are able to work directly with our clients. Unlike out-of-state law firms, our clients know who we are, know how to get ahold of us, and know that they can trust us to prosecute their claim in their best interests.
If you or a loved one is affected by the Tylenol Autism case, contact the lawyers at Heenan & Cook for a free and confidential consultation.