The White House under Donald Trump is preparing to suggest that the use of paracetamol during pregnancy may increase the risk of autism. This announcement has sparked concerns among experts in the UK regarding its potential implications.
A scientist has criticized Trump’s stance, stating that it could unfairly stigmatize families with autistic children by implying they are responsible for the condition. Reports from The Wall Street Journal indicate that US health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr is likely to assert that Tylenol, known as paracetamol in the UK, could be a contributing factor to autism.
According to sources, a forthcoming federal report is expected to recommend a specific type of folate as a potential treatment for autism. Trump mentioned, “I think we found an answer to autism,” during a recent statement.
Contrastingly, the NHS website in the UK asserts that paracetamol is considered safe for pregnant women as a pain reliever without harming the baby. Dr. Monique Botha from Durham University highlighted that numerous studies, including a substantial Swedish study involving 2.4 million births, have found no conclusive link between prenatal exposure to paracetamol and autism or related conditions.
Dr. Botha emphasized the lack of strong evidence supporting a causal relationship between paracetamol and autism, urging a balanced approach to pain relief during pregnancy. She highlighted the importance of not deterring women from seeking necessary care during pregnancy and cautioned against the potential societal repercussions of unfairly attributing autism to maternal actions.
Dimitrios Siassakos, a professor specializing in obstetrics and gynecology, emphasized that autism is influenced by various factors, predominantly genetic predisposition and birth complications. He noted that research indicates any perceived association between paracetamol use during pregnancy and autism diminishes when accounting for significant contributing factors.
Professor Claire Anderson, representing the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, reiterated the long-standing safety profile of paracetamol, especially during pregnancy, when used appropriately. Citing a comprehensive 2024 study involving over 2.4 million children, she reassured expectant parents that paracetamol remains a secure option for managing pain or fever during pregnancy as directed.
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