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Dr. Karam Radwan, a child and adolescent psychiatrist with University of Chicago Medicine and director of its neurodevelopmental program, specializes in autism spectrum disorder and says science doesn’t support claims that the painkiller Tylenol causes autism.

How do we know Tylenol is safe?

It’s not a new medication. We’ve been using it since 1960, so we have a long history of safety. And acetaminophen is important because it’s one of few medications you’re allowed to take in pregnancy. There’s no need to spread fear. Tylenol is safe. I want to make sure mothers of kids with autism don’t blame themselves.

Is there any link between Tylenol in pregnancy and autism?

There’s really nothing new to recommend a change in policy. Studies did not show causality. But we should remind people: Don’t take something unless you need it. If you take Tylenol more than four or five days and aren’t feeling well, consult a doctor. The underlying problem could be the real issue.

Should pregnant women with fever or pain “tough it out” as some have suggested?

High fever in a pregnant woman is riskier than fever without pregnancy. It can lead to epilepsy and all sorts of complications, and that’s a threat to the baby.

What do we know about what causes autism?

When I think of autism, I think of hundreds of illnesses under one umbrella. So it makes it difficult to study. No two patients with autism look alike. It’s your genes, it’s the environment, it’s so many things. I wish it was as simple as [not taking one medication], but that won’t be the case. We’re very far from finding a cause. And we want to be careful not to promote false hope.

How do you know whose advice to follow?

People should listen to their physician and the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. These are credible institutions that won’t make a statement until they appraise the evidence.