In a recent development, the White House under Donald Trump’s administration is preparing to suggest that using paracetamol while pregnant may pose a risk of autism. This assertion has sparked concerns among UK experts over the potentially controversial statement.
According to reports, US Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr is anticipated to claim that Tylenol, also known as paracetamol in the UK, could be a contributing factor to autism. Additionally, a federal report is expected to propose a specific form of folate as a treatment for the disorder, with Trump expressing optimism about progress in addressing autism.
In contrast, the UK’s NHS website recommends paracetamol as a safe pain relief option for pregnant women, stating it is commonly used during pregnancy without harm to the baby. Dr. Monique Botha from Durham University highlighted various studies, including a substantial Swedish study, that found no substantial link between prenatal paracetamol exposure and autism.
Dr. Botha emphasized the lack of concrete evidence supporting a causal relationship between paracetamol and autism, cautioning against unfounded conclusions that may deter pregnant women from accessing necessary pain relief. She also raised concerns about the potential stigma on families with autistic children if blame is wrongly placed on them.
Experts like Professor Dimitrios Siassakos from University College London emphasized the multifaceted nature of autism, attributing it to genetic factors and birth complications rather than paracetamol use during pregnancy. Professor Claire Anderson, President of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, reiterated the safety of paracetamol, citing a large-scale study from 2024 that found no significant connection between paracetamol use in pregnancy and autism risk.
This ongoing debate underscores the importance of evidence-based information and the need to balance caution with ensuring access to safe pain management options for pregnant women.