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Acetaminophen Use for Fever in Children Associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Stephen T Schultz1, Georgianna G Gould1

  • 1Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.

Autism-Open Access
|October 4, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Acetaminophen use in early childhood is linked to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This study suggests a reversed association in older children and explores potential endocannabinoid system links, recommending safety reviews for acetaminophen.

Area of Science:

  • Neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Pediatric pharmacology
  • Endocannabinoid system research

Background:

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presents with social communication deficits and restricted behaviors.
  • Previous research indicated a link between early acetaminophen use and increased ASD likelihood.
  • This study investigates the association in older children and explores underlying mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To re-examine the association between acetaminophen use and ASD in older children.
  • To investigate the shift in medication preference (acetaminophen vs. ibuprofen) in children with ASD.
  • To explore the potential role of the endocannabinoid system in observed associations.

Main Methods:

  • Case-control study comparing children with and without ASD.
  • Analysis of medication use patterns, including acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
  • Examination of sociability changes during fever in relation to medication use.

Main Results:

  • Acetaminophen use showed a reversed association with ASD in older children compared to younger ones.
  • Children with ASD were more likely to switch from acetaminophen to ibuprofen for fever management.
  • Children with ASD exhibited increased sociability during fevers, potentially linked to endocannabinoid system activation.

Conclusions:

  • Acetaminophen use in early life may be associated with altered endocannabinoid system function in ASD.
  • The findings suggest a need for further investigation into the safety of acetaminophen in pediatric populations.
  • Understanding these associations may inform future research and clinical recommendations regarding medication use in children at risk for ASD.

Keywords:
AcetaminophenAnandamideAutismAutism spectrum disorderCannabinoidEndocannabinoidFeverMedication

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