The Use of Tylenol in Pregnant Women and a Child Diagnosed with Autism or ADHD Heninger Garrison Davis The headline Tylenol causes autism has sparked concern. But the science tells a more nuanced story. Some observational studies have found that when pregnant women used more acetaminophen, their Mark Hyman, No Clear Autism Link With Prenatal Tylenol, Major Review Finds MedPage Today Fact Check: Can Tylenol Cause Autism? Researchers are studying a possible link between acetaminophen (Tylenol) use during pregnancy and higher autism or ADHD risk. It may lower glutathione, an important antioxidant for brain development.