Walmart, CVS Face Suits Blaming Common Painkiller for Autism (2)

Dozens of lawsuits are challenging the long-standing belief that pregnant women can safely take acetaminophen, an over-the-counter drug used in Tylenol and generic pain medications.

Women have filed 87 complaints in seven states against sellers of store-branded pain relievers, including Walmart Inc., CVS Health Corp. and Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc. Citing new studies linking the drug to increased risk of developmental issues in babies, the plaintiffs blame their children’s autism, attention-deficit problems or hyperactivity on significant doses of acetaminophen taken during pregnancy.

While the women say they should have been warned of the risks, the companies dispute the ...