Paracetamol pregnancy study contradicts Trump claims on autism link

Doctors say pregnant women should not be alarmed by claims linking paracetamol to autism or ADHD.

A major review in The Lancet has found no evidence that taking the drug during pregnancy increases the risk of neurodevelopmental conditions in children.

The study analysed decades of data and concluded paracetamol remains the safest option for treating pain and fever while pregnant.

The Lancet paper comes after the Trump administration linked the use of Kenvue Inc’s Tylenol (paracetamol) to autism in September and advised pregnant women to avoid the drug.

This created confusion for patients, since the painkiller has long been deemed safe and the White House did not present new evidence to explain the change.

Dr Brendan O'Shea, Professor in Primary Care at Trinity College, says the president's comments were dangerous.

"None of this stands up. It didn't stand up on September 22nd; it doesn't stand up now.

"We are on the wrong track with this. This is not a health story; this is a political story."

Tylenol is the drug recommended by obstetrician-gynaecologists for pain or fevers while pregnant, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Fevers left untreated have been linked to developmental issues in babies, even miscarriages. Other common painkillers, such as ibuprofen, can reduce blood flow to the baby and lead to developmental issues.