Acetaminophen and Autism
Based on the scientific evidence we now know that many, if not most, cases of autism are a chemically-induced injury which occurs when babies and children with oxidative stress are given acetaminophen (commonly branded Tylenol in the U.S.).​​
24 and Counting
Currently there are 24 lines of peer-reviewed and published reasons (also called lines of evidence) we know autism is a chemically-induced injury from acetaminophen.
To learn more about the reasons, that led to this conclusion select the depth of information that best fits your interests to read about what to do next.
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Vulnerability from the Start
The prevalence of chemical-injury by acetaminophen can be significant, especially in the first 10 days of life for babies. There is simply too much vulnerability for these small humans trying to start life on their own.
Fortunately, the induction of autism after age 5 seems unlikely.
You Can Be the Change
With your help, we could see the return of autism rates as they were in the 70’s, before the rise of acetaminophen use; only 1 in 2,500 children had autism.
The dramatic increase in popularity of acetaminophen use in babies mirrors the rise in autism that started in the 80’s.
Based on available data, it’s reasonable that the vast majority of autism, possibly more than 90%, could be prevented if we stop exposing the developing brain to acetaminophen.
In other words, you could help to prevent up to 9 out of every 10 cases of autism spectrum disorder.
I want to take action. Tell me how.
Exactly how much autism is induced by acetaminophen exposure?
Sadly, nobody knows, and nobody will know with certainty until we stop using the drug during early brain development.
In our published analysis of available evidence, we conclude that it's likely that acetaminophen induces more than 50% of all cases of autism, and entirely possible that the vast majority of autism, more than 90% of all cases, is caused by acetaminophen exposure.
What Do We Do Without Acetaminophen?
Scientifically speaking, acetaminophen has never been proven to provide any long-term benefits to children. It also has never been tested as safe for children.
For many, this will be very surprising.
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We cannot give medical advice, so the best advice we can give is for parents and guardians to make a plan in advance.
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Explore these resources from WPLaboratory.org to help you navigate this decision.
Plan Kickstarter
We've compiled a list of questions for you to think about and consider with all appropriate guidelines for you to start making your own plan.
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Tips for Parents
Explore more about the science behind the use of acetaminophen, tailored for parents and guardians.
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Explore Resources
There are dozens of resources compiled for you. Choose which you want to read next.
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How Can I Take Action?
We know the evidence, we know what action needs to be taken, and now, with your help, we can raise our voices to allow parents, guardians, lawmakers, medical professionals and others know what we can do to change this story.
Learn
Being informed is one of the most important parts of making change. Read about the 20 lines of evidence so that you can learn, share, and advocate for others to know too.
Share
Share the message with other parents and guardians to let them make educated decisions on administering acetaminophen to their babies and children.
Do
Participate in the cause by taking personal action, whether posting on social media, calling your local representatives, and participating in other initiatives.
Is there another way you
want to help?
Let us know through the form here and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
About WPLab Inc.
WPLab is a not-for-profit company that conducts research and education related to immune system dysfunction in high-income countries. A current focus is the interaction between the immune system and acetaminophen (paracetamol) early in life, and how that interaction affects brain development. Preventautism.org is part of the WPLab Inc. research and education. We are currently conducting laboratory work, and, at the same time, work with social media and other venues to educate caregivers about what is known regarding the impact of acetaminophen (paracetamol) on the developing brain. For more information about WPLab, please see our website at www.WPLaboratory.org.