Tylenol and Autism: The Science Behind the Headlines with Dr. William Parker

Send Vanessa a Text Message

NEW WEBSITE: https://intentionallywellpodcast.com/

In this episode, I sit down with William Parker, PhD, a scientist with decades of research in biochemistry, microbiology, and immunology. Best known for discovering the function of the human appendix and as a leading researcher studying acetaminophen (Tylenol) and its impact on neurodevelopment, William shares his insights on a topic that has recently garnered widespread media attention and public discussion, sparking conversation around acetaminophen and autism risk.

We explore:

• How acetaminophen interacts with the body during critical periods of development
• The biological pathways connecting acetaminophen exposure to neurodevelopmental outcomes
• Why this research matters to parents, caregivers, and anyone invested in child health
• Common questions, concerns, and rebuttals surrounding acetaminophen and autism risk
• The gaps in pediatric education and medical literature that often leave these risks under-discussed

This episode is designed to break down complex science in a way that is understandable, actionable, and presented through a compassionate and logical lens. Whether you’re a parent, healthcare professional, or just curious, you’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of the evidence, the controversies, and the implications for children’s health today.

For those who’d like to explore Dr. Parker’s research and related literature, here are the studies and resources mentioned in this episode:

• Acetaminophen and Autism: Evidence from a Systematic Review (MDPI, 2024)
  
  
• Mechanisms of Acetaminophen-Induced Neurodevelopmental Effects (MDPI, 2024)
  
  
• Preprint: Revisiting Acetaminophen and Autism—A Global Call for Reevaluation (2025)
  
  
• Preprint: Acetaminophen, Oxidative Stress, and Neurodevelopmental Risk (2025)
  
  
• Prevent Autism—Educational and Research Resource
  
  
• Evidence That Acetaminophen Triggers Autism in Susceptible Individuals Has Been Ignored and Mishandled for More Than a Decade (RealClear Public Health, 2025)

Connect with the show:

• Podcast on Instagram
• Vanessa on Instagram
• Podcast on YouTube
• Podcast on TikTok
• Podcast on X
• Email: [e-mail]

Support the Show
If this podcast has encouraged you and you’d like to help me continue sharing impactful content, you can support the show here:
Support the Show

© 2025 Vanessa Lopez, Intentionally Well Podcast. All rights reserved. No part of this podcast or show notes may be copied, shared, o

Support the show

This episode is for informational purposes only. Please consult a trusted health practitioner for individual concerns.