Acetaminophen/Tylenol Injury
Davis & Crump is currently investigating claims for individuals who were exposed to acetaminophen in the womb after 2008 and were subsequently diagnosed with Autism or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen, which is the primary ingredient in Tylenol, is one of the most widely used painkillers in the United States. It is recommended for all ages, and is found in a variety of prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Acetaminophen is also one of the only over-the-counter painkillers recommended for use in pregnant women and infants younger than six months old. As a result, it is recommended by virtually every pediatrician and OBGYN, as well as the CDC. In fact, studies have shown that 50-70% of expecting women in the United States have taken acetaminophen while pregnant.
Autistic Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
The CDC suggests that 1 in 44 children were diagnosed with Autism in 2018, an increase from 2004 when the number was closer to 1 in 125 children. Studies have also suggested that upwards of 10% of children suffer from ADHD. Both Autism and ADHD are diagnosed by medical professionals, but symptoms and signs can first manifest during a child’s early years.Autism can come in many different forms, but every form on the spectrum is classified as a neurodevelopment disorder that can affect language, behavioral, social, and learning skills in children and young adults.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopment disorder that shares many similar traits and symptoms of Autism, but is marked primarily by hyperactivity and the inability to focus on a given task.
Connection to ASD and ADHD
Acetaminophen is an aspirin-free medication that is prescribed and available over-the-counter at most retail stores. After studies attributed childhood aspirin exposure to the development of Reye’s Syndrome in the 1980s, aspirin use declined and acetaminophen became the primary, and in some cases only, painkiller indicated for infant and child use.
In 2008, researchers suggested a link between acetaminophen exposure and Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Since that time, numerous studies have been published suggesting that prenatal (during pregnancy) exposure to acetaminophen is associated with Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in children. Further studies have even suggested that the rise in acetaminophen use since the decline of aspirin usage has tracked the rise in Autism and ADHD diagnoses during the similar time period. Despite its widespread use, healthcare professionals have repeatedly warned against prolonged use of acetaminophen due to the adverse health risk it may pose. The association between acetaminophen and Autism or ADHD is still being studied, with continued scientific study undertaken every day.
Illnesses and Symptoms Caused by Prenatal Acetaminophen Exposure:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Autism/Autistic Disorder
- Asperger’s Disorder
- Rett’s Disorder
- Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
- Pervasive Developmental Disorder
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Do I Have A Claim?
Our legal team is helping parents and their children who were exposed to acetaminophen and suffered adverse physical, mental, and behavioral disorders. If your child was exposed to acetaminophen while in utero and has been diagnosed with one or more of the above listed illnesses or health conditions, then we are offering a free legal consultation and case evaluation. There is no out-of-pocket cost to you to have our firm represent you in this case. Davis & Crump is only paid an attorney’s fee if a recovery is made in your case.
Why Choose Davis & Crump?
Davis & Crump has handled complex litigation, including pharmaceutical products liability cases, since 1984. We have recovered over one billion dollars for our clients. Our attorneys are leaders in complex cases and are recognized in such publications as Best Lawyers in America, U.S. News & World Report, Top 100 Trial Lawyers and Super Lawyers.
Davis & Crump is experienced in products liability and pharmaceutical injury litigation and settlements. If your child has been diagnosed with Autism and/or Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder after being exposed to acetaminophen in utero, call us at 1-800-277-0300, or email us at info@daviscrump.com or fill out a free case evaluation form here.
