September 23, 2025 — The World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) have both rejected recent claims made by U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting that taking paracetamol (known as Tylenol in the U.S.) during pregnancy increases the risk of autism in children.
Global Health Authorities Step In
A WHO spokesperson clarified that:
“There is no scientifically proven link between the use of paracetamol during pregnancy and autism.”
Similarly, the EMA stated that existing scientific evidence does not support any causal relationship between paracetamol use and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). According to their official statement, paracetamol remains a safe and widely used medication for pain relief and fever management during pregnancy, provided it is taken in recommended doses.
The Trump Controversy
On Monday, President Trump caused controversy by claiming that Tylenol was a “bad drug” and that its use by pregnant women could increase the likelihood of autism in babies. He went further, suggesting that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) would soon advise doctors not to prescribe Tylenol to pregnant women unless absolutely necessary.
The remarks sparked public concern and criticism from medical experts, with many warning that such statements could fuel misinformation and cause unnecessary fear among expectant mothers.
UK Response
The UK Health Secretary urged the public to “trust doctors, not political rhetoric,” emphasizing that paracetamol continues to be regarded as the safest pain reliever during pregnancy when used in moderation. British health authorities reiterated that no credible studies to date have established a link between paracetamol and autism.
What is Paracetamol?
- Generic name: Paracetamol (acetaminophen in North America)
- Uses: Widely prescribed for fever, mild to moderate pain, and headaches.
- Brand names: Tylenol in the U.S., Panadol and others internationally.
The drug has been in use for decades and is recommended by global health bodies as a first-line treatment for pain and fever during pregnancy.
Medical Community Reacts
Health experts and pharmaceutical representatives strongly criticized Trump’s remarks. Kenvue, the manufacturer of Tylenol, issued a statement to the BBC stressing that:
“Scientific research clearly demonstrates that acetaminophen does not cause autism.”
Doctors warned that discouraging the use of paracetamol without evidence could leave pregnant women without safe options to manage high fever or severe pain, which themselves carry risks for mother and child.
Conclusion
While President Trump’s comments have stirred debate, the scientific consensus remains firm:
- Paracetamol is safe for use in pregnancy when taken appropriately.
- No proven link exists between paracetamol and autism.
- Pregnant women should always consult their doctor before taking any medication but need not fear unnecessary risks based on unverified claims.
