President Donald Trump

U.S. President sparks controversy over remarks on common painkiller

U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that pregnant women’s use of paracetamol — also known as acetaminophen or by the brand name Tylenol — carries a “very increased risk” of autism in children.

His comments, captured in a video shared on the Facebook page of Australian outlet news.com.au, alleged that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was preparing new guidance on the use of paracetamol in pregnancy.

“Acetaminophen, which is basically commonly known as Tylenol, during pregnancy can be associated with a very increased risk of autism. So, taking Tylenol is not good. I’ll say it, it’s not good,” he said, adding that the FDA was “strongly recommending” women restrict use of the drug to only medically necessary situations.

Autism spectrum disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting communication, social interaction and behaviour. It is usually diagnosed in early childhood and has no known cure, though interventions can improve outcomes. Symptoms may include repetitive behaviours, social communication challenges and difficulty adapting to change.

Research shows no single cause of autism. Most studies point to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

FDA response: evidence inconclusive

In a statement on its official website, the FDA confirmed it had begun reviewing warning labels on acetaminophen products and had sent letters to healthcare providers nationwide.

The agency highlighted several large-scale cohort studies — including the Nurses’ Health Study II and the Boston Birth Cohort — suggesting an association between prolonged paracetamol use during pregnancy and later diagnoses of autism and ADHD in children. However, it stressed that a direct causal link has not been established.

“The evidence remains inconclusive,” the agency said, noting that some studies have reported no association at all.

Experts call claim “dangerous” and “anti-science”

Health experts and autism advocates have condemned the President’s comments. Hannah Kirk, senior lecturer at Monash University’s Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, said autism is a neurodevelopmental condition with hundreds of genetic links and no proven single environmental cause.

“No study has shown that acetaminophen causes autism. Some studies have reported an association, while others have not. Importantly, association does not mean causation,” Ms Kirk said.

Mel Merritt from the UK’s National Autistic Society described Trump’s remarks as “dangerous, anti-science and irresponsible,” warning they could put pregnant women at risk and further stigmatize autistic people.

Paracetamol still recommended in pregnancy

Paracetamol remains one of the most widely used over-the-counter medicines worldwide and is the only painkiller recommended by the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) for pregnant women to treat pain or fever.