Experts Warn: Trump Promotes Controversial Tylenol-Autism Link That Raises Serious Concerns

Medical professionals are concerned after Donald Trump suggested that pregnant women should avoid Tylenol. He claimed a possible link between the pain reliever, known as acetaminophen, and a rise in autism rates in children. This sparked strong reactions from health organizations.

Groups like the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) swiftly defended acetaminophen. They emphasized its safety during pregnancy. “Linking acetaminophen use to autism is alarming and irresponsible,” said Steven Fleischman, president of ACOG. This message underscores the importance of reliable information for expecting mothers.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. also weighed in, urging physicians to prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest time. However, accusations made by Trump and Kennedy faced backlash from medical experts and regulators globally.

For example, the UK’s MHRA stated that no evidence exists connecting paracetamol use during pregnancy with autism and continues to endorse it as a safe option. Similarly, Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration has reaffirmed this stance.

A thorough review by the SMFM found no causal link between acetaminophen and increased autism risk. Doctors on social media have reassured pregnant women about the safety of Tylenol. Pediatrician Edith Bracho-Sanchez posted a video stating, “No credible science supports a link between Tylenol and autism.”

Dr. Monique Botha, an expert in psychology, shared a significant study involving 2.4 million births in Sweden. This research showed no link between prenatal paracetamol exposure and later development of autism or ADHD. Such findings highlight the extensive research debunking these claims.

In the broader context, it’s crucial to understand that autism is a complex condition influenced by various factors. Recently, the FDA announced a new medication, leucovorin, for managing autism symptoms, but experts caution that many studies are still needed to determine its effectiveness.

As discussions continue, the prevailing view among health experts is that Tylenol can be safely used during pregnancy when taken as directed. As always, pregnant women should consult their healthcare providers for personalized advice.

For more information on Tylenol and autism claims, you can read the article from The Guardian here.

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