President Donald Trump’s administration is preparing to suggest that using paracetamol, also known as Tylenol, during pregnancy may increase the risk of autism. This claim has sparked concern among experts in the UK, with one scientist warning that such assertions could wrongly stigmatize families of autistic children.
According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, US Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr is expected to propose paracetamol as a potential trigger for autism. The report also mentions a federal recommendation for a specific type of folate to address the disorder. Trump himself stated, “I think we found an answer to autism.”
Contrary to these claims, the NHS website in the UK states that paracetamol is safe for pregnant women and their babies. Dr. Monique Botha, an associate professor at Durham University, highlighted a Swedish study involving 2.4 million births in 2024, which found no link between prenatal paracetamol exposure and autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities.
Dr. Botha emphasized the lack of substantial evidence supporting a causal relationship between paracetamol and autism. She stressed the importance of adequate pain relief during pregnancy, with paracetamol being a safer option compared to other alternatives. She cautioned against fear-mongering that could deter pregnant women from seeking necessary care and potentially blame families of autistic children.
Experts like Professor Dimitrios Siassakos from University College London explained that autism results from various factors, including genetic predisposition and birth complications. Research indicated that any perceived association between paracetamol use in pregnancy and autism diminishes when considering relevant factors, such as family history.
Professor Claire Anderson of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society affirmed the long-standing safety of paracetamol, especially during pregnancy when used as directed. A significant study from 2024 involving over 2.4 million children found no evidence linking paracetamol use during pregnancy to an increased risk of autism in offspring. This study provides reassurance to expectant parents regarding the safe use of paracetamol for pain and fever management during pregnancy.
