Tylenol Autism ADHD Lawsuit

Written By:
Picture of Jessie Paluch
Jessie Paluch

Attorney Jessie Paluch, founder of TruLaw, has over 25 years of experience as a personal injury and mass tort attorney, and previously worked as an international tax attorney at Deloitte. Jessie collaborates with attorneys nationwide — enabling her to share reliable, up-to-date legal information with our readers.

This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy and clarity by the team of writers and legal experts at TruLawsuit Info and is as accurate as possible. This content should not be taken as legal advice from an attorney. If you would like to learn more about our owner and experienced injury lawyer, Jessie Paluch, you can do so here.

TruLawsuit Info does everything possible to make sure the information in this article is up to date and accurate. If you need specific legal advice about your case, contact our team by using the chat on the bottom of this page. This article should not be taken as advice from an attorney.

Key Takeaways:

  • Tylenol Autism ADHD Lawsuit claims have been filed against major retailers like CVS and Walmart, alleging that they did not adequately warn consumers about the potential dangers of prenatal exposure to acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol. Johnson and Johnson, the manufacturer of Tylenol, is also involved in these lawsuits.
  • There is growing controversy and evidence suggesting a link between Tylenol, a common over-the-counter medication, and neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and ADHD. The exact mechanisms of how Tylenol might cause these issues are not fully understood yet.
  • A class action lawsuit, confirmed in October 2022, is now in place. This lawsuit consolidates the claims of parents who allege that their children developed autism or ADHD after being exposed to Tylenol during pregnancy. The lawsuit aims to make the legal process faster and more affordable for these parents.

Tylenol Autism ADHD Lawsuit

Recently, there has been a lot of controversy surrounding Tylenol and its potential link to autism, ADHD and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

What’s more, there is a growing body of evidence connecting popular over-the-counter medication to these and other serious health conditions.

Tylenol Autism ADHD Lawsuit

While the exact mechanisms by which Tylenol causes these problems are not fully understood, it is clear that this drug should be avoided by anyone pregnant.

Table of Contents

Is there a lawsuit for Tylenol causing autism?

The effect of Tylenol has been so widespread that Tylenol autism and ADHD lawsuits began to be filed against major stores like CVS and Walmart, claiming they did not warn consumers of the dangers of prenatal acetaminophen exposure coming from ingesting Tylenol.

It’s more common for retailers to be defendants in these lawsuits than the manufacturers of Tylenol or generic acetaminophen, as federal law makes it easier to hold them liable.

This is likely due to an overall strategy, as no retailer would want awful publicity from litigation.

Contrarily, drug manufacturers such as Johnson and Johnson are more likely to fight these lawsuits fiercely.

That being said, Johnson and Johnson are involved in the Tylenol autism lawsuit alongside large retailers who distribute their products.

Are these product liability lawsuits?

Yes, the vast majority are.

Lawyers reviewing Tylenol autism lawsuits will likely first consider whether the plaintiff has a valid claim under product liability law.

These are three (3) different types of claims that might be brought in these cases:

  • Negligence: This is a claim that the retailer or manufacturer failed to warn consumers of the risks associated with taking the medication.
  • Strict Liability: This is a claim that the retailer or manufacturer is liable for injuries caused by their product, regardless of whether they were negligent in producing or marketing it.
  • Breach of Warranty: This claim implies that the retailer or manufacturer of the product failed to live up to express or implied promises about the safety of their product.

Is there a class action lawsuit against Tylenol for ADHD?

Yes, there is now a class action Tylenol autism ADHD lawsuit.

This is because more and more parents are claiming that their children suffer from autism or ADHD after being exposed to Tylenol during pregnancy.

The class action lawsuit was confirmed in October 2022, with certain law firms anticipating more than 100,000 victims to file claims.

An advantage of the Tylenol autism lawsuit being consolidated into a multi-district litigation (MDL) class action is that it will be much faster than if each case was filed and tried individually.

Furthermore, expenses such as court fees will be shared, making it more affordable for parents to take legal action.

If your child has been diagnosed with autism or ADHD after significant prenatal exposure to Tylenol, you may be eligible to join the class action lawsuit and receive compensation for your child’s injuries.

Get a free case evaluation by using our chat below.

What is Tylenol?

Tylenol is a pain reliever containing acetaminophen, the active ingredient.

It’s used to relieve pain from headaches, muscle aches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, arthritis, or other types of pain.

Tylenol is available over-the-counter and by prescription and is a common medication used by pregnant women in America.

While Tylenol appears not to affect adults in general, there is documentary and scientific evidence that prolonged exposure to it can be harmful to developing fetuses.

What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disorder that affects children and adults.

It is characterized by problems with attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.

ADHD is one of the most common disorders in children.

It is estimated that between 3 and 5 per cent of school-aged children have ADHD.

Further, boys are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than girls.

ADHD can cause several problems, including difficulty in school, problems with relationships, and problems with employment.

Is ADHD on the autism spectrum?

There is currently no scientific consensus on whether ADHD is on the autism spectrum.

However, some experts believe that ADHD may be a mild form of autism or that it may share some features with autism.

For example, both ADHD and autism can involve difficulties with social skills, communication, and executive functioning.

Some with ADHD may develop autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and vice versa.

Is there a link between Tylenol and ADHD?

Yes, there does seem to be a link between Tylenol usage and the development of disorders such as autism, ADHD and others.

In effect, fetal exposure to acetaminophen found in this drug can lead to developmental disorders and an ADHD diagnosis later on in life.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioural challenges.

People with ASD often have difficulty communicating with others and interacting socially.

ASD occurs in all ethnic and socioeconomic groups and is about four times more common among boys than girls.

ASD symptoms can be mild, moderate or severe. Some people with ASD require little support, while others may need more extensive services and lifelong support.

There is no one type of autism spectrum disorder, but it is generally characterized by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviours.

Can you develop Autism Spectrum Disorder after taking Tylenol?

In light of the Tylenol autism ADHD lawsuit, children can receive autism diagnoses relating to fetal exposure to this medication.

Acetaminophen use during pregnancy can cause a range of physical disorders and neurodevelopmental disorders ranging from:

  • IQ deficits
  • Sleep issues
  • Autism, ADHD and neurodevelopmental diagnoses
  • Early puberty in females
  • Male fertility issues

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does Tylenol cause autism and ADHD in pregnant women?

    Tylenol doesn’t cause the pregnant women themselves to develop autism, ADHD, or other related disorders, but Tylenol can affect the developing fetus.

    Many parents who took Tylenol while pregnant claim their children were subsequently diagnosed with developmental disorders.

    This includes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and others.

    Aside from these compounding claims, recent studies by John Hopkins and Yale universities have shown that prenatal exposure to acetaminophen – the active ingredient in Tylenol – may be associated with an increased risk of these conditions.

  • How much can I get from the Tylenol lawsuit?

    Tylenol lawsuits are still in the early stages, so there’s no exact amount of compensation has been determined yet.

    But if you or a loved one has been affected, you may be compensated for the following:

    • Payment for medical expenses related to your child’s autism or ADHD diagnosis, including treatments, therapies, and medications
    • Lost wages if you have to miss work to care for your child
    • Pain and suffering damages
    • Punitive damages

    While these autism and ADHD are not life-threatening, some of these issues can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and ability to learn, develop social skills, and work.

    Parents may endure extreme stress while pursuing care for their children impacted by these issues.

    Additionally, there is often a higher economic cost for parents of children with these health concerns.

    Autism and ADHD aren’t life-threatening conditions, but they can still have a negative effect on day-to-day life.

    This includes things like preventing skill development or hindering social interaction.

    Oftentimes, caring for these children is overbearing for parents and puts extreme stress on them.

    Pursuing treatment also takes an economic toll, as neurological disorders are especially costly to manage.

    If your Tylenol autism lawyers can show that you took acetaminophen during pregnancy and it led to a diagnosis of autism or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in your child, you may be able to get compensated for expenses like these.

    To learn more about the Tylenol autism ADHD lawsuit and to find out if you’re eligible for compensation, use our chatbot for a case evaluation.

  • How much is the Tylenol lawsuit settlement?

    The Tylenol lawsuit settlement is still being decided.

    However, it is expected to be a large sum of money because the plaintiffs are claiming that Tylenol was responsible for their children being diagnosed with ADHD and/or autism.

    If the settlement is awarded in their favor, it could be worth millions of dollars.

    Tylenol autism lawsuits may vary depending on the severity of the child’s symptoms.

    In more severe cases, settlements may reach over $2 million.

  • How do you qualify for compensation in the Tylenol Autism ADHD Lawsuit?

    There are a few things to keep in mind in order to qualify for compensation from Tylenol autism lawsuits.

    You’ll need proof that your child suffers from autism, ADHD or another complex developmental disorder and was exposed to Tylenol use prenatally.

    If you are considering filing a lawsuit, your claim will be stronger if you can show that during pregnancy, you took high doses of Tylenol or acetaminophen products for an extended period and that your child has a neurological developmental disorder as a result.

    No matter how much money is awarded in the Tylenol lawsuit settlement, it will not undo the damage that has been done to the children who were affected.

    However, it could help to provide them with the resources they need to get the treatment and care they deserve.

  • Who is Tylenol owned by?

    Tylenol is owned by Johnson & Johnson, one of the world’s largest healthcare and pharmaceutical companies.

    Johnson & Johnson has been involved in several lawsuits over the years, most notably for its involvement in the opioid crisis.

    The company has also been sued for products like talcum powder and baby shampoo, which have been linked to cancer.

  • Is Tylenol linked to birth defects?

    There is evidence that Tylenol may be linked to birth defects when taken during pregnancy.

    Studies have shown that exposure to acetaminophen in utero may be associated with an increased risk of autism, ADHD and other mental health effects – hence the Tylenol autism lawsuit.

    However, prenatal exposure may also cause other physical issues are also possible, such as urogenital and reproductive disorders

  • Is Tylenol safe for babies?

    In light of the Tylenol lawsuits and recent evidence on the subject, it seems that the generic acetaminophen found in this pain relief medication isn’t completely safe for babies.

    Healthcare professionals and researchers warn that prenatal and early life exposure could lead to autism, ADHD and other neurological disorders.

  • Does Tylenol cross the placenta?

    Yes, generic acetaminophen in Tylenol does cross the placenta, which means that acetaminophen use during pregnancy can affect the fetus.

    Acetaminophen enters the fetal bloodstream from the mother’s bloodstream.

    Although many people previously thought acetaminophen exposure was safe, recent studies suggest that it could interfere with the hormones governing the development of the baby’s nervous and reproductive systems.

    Epidemiology, which is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease, has shown a possible link between generic acetaminophen exposure during pregnancy and problems later on in life, such as fertility issues or damage to the nervous system.

  • Is there a recall on children's Tylenol 2022?

    Despite the Tylenol autism lawsuits, there have been no recalls in 2022.

    However, other children’s Tylenol products have been recalled in years past for various reasons, including mold contamination and incorrect dosage information.

  • Have companies stopped making infant Tylenol?

    No, despite the links between Tylenol usage and certain developmental disorders, infant Tylenol and other forms of this medication are still being manufactured.

    However, since 2011, manufacturers of OTC pediatric acetaminophen products, such as Johnson and Johnson, have had to stop making infant drops due to confusion and mistakes with the dosage.

    Since then, the Consumer Healthcare Products Association has mandated that manufacturers make pediatric products with just one concentration to avoid such errors.

Written By:
Picture of Jessie Paluch
Jessie Paluch

Experienced Attorney & Legal SaaS CEO

With over 25 years of legal experience, Jessie is an Illinois lawyer, a CPA, and a mother of three.  She spent the first decade of her career working as an international tax attorney at Deloitte.

In 2009, Jessie co-founded her own law firm with her husband – which has scaled to over 30 employees since its conception.

In 2016, Jessie founded TruLaw, which allows her to collaborate with attorneys and legal experts across the United States on a daily basis. This hypervaluable network of experts is what enables her to share reliable legal information with her readers!

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Here, at Tru Lawsuit Info, we’re committed to helping victims get the justice they deserve.

To do this, we actively work to connect them with attorneys who are experts in litigating cases similar to theirs.

Would you like our help?