Recent studies have shown an association between prenatal use of Paracetamol acetaminophen (APAP) and elevated risk of children born with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
An “APAP Consensus Statement” published 2021 found a growing body of research suggesting that exposure to acetaminophen may alter fetal development and increase risks of certain neurodevelopmental disorders. The consensus statement reflected the concerns of 91 scientists, clinicians and public health professionals who called for further research initiatives and further guidance for pregnant persons.
Acetaminophen crosses both the placental barrier and the fetal blood-brain barrier and remains in the bloodstream of infants for prolonged periods of time, increasing the risk of altered development of the fetal brain.
Acetaminophen is the active ingredient in more than 600 medications used to relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce fevers. It is the most common medication used during pregnancy with approximately 65% of US women taking acetaminophen during pregnancy.
The Lawsuit
A federal Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) has been formed in front of Senior U.S. District Judge Denisse Cote in the Southern District of New York against manufacturers and retailers of acetaminophen including Walmart, Safeway, Kroger, 7-Eleven, Amazon, Bayer, Costco and others. Paul LLP partners, Rick Paul and Ashlea Schwarz, have been appointed leadership positions in the MDL.
What is a Multidistrict Litigation (MDL)?
While a Multidistrict Litigation is like a class action lawsuit, each claim remains separate. Cases filed all over the country are consolidated in front of one judge for the pretrial and discovery process. If a settlement is not reached after a series of test cases known as bellwether trials each claim is sent back to the court where it was originally filed where it will be set for its own separate trial date.
Request a FREE Consultation
Our experienced attorneys are investigating and filing claims. If you or a loved one used acetaminophen while pregnant and your child was subsequently diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder or another neurodevelopmental disorder, call our law firm today at (855)-985-8100 or request a consultation below to discuss your legal options in a complimentary, risk-free case assessment.
*Warning: you should never stop taking any medication as directed by a physician without consulting the physician first as other, more harmful effects might result. *