**UK Drug Regulator Reaffirms Safety of Paracetamol Use During Pregnancy Amidst Autism Concerns**
In recent statements, former President Donald Trump linked the use of Tylenol (paracetamol) during pregnancy to autism, urging pregnant women with the words, “Don’t take Tylenol” and advising them to “fight like hell” to avoid its use. Trump suggested that acetaminophen is a “very big factor” in autism, claiming that regions without access to the medication report no cases of autism.
However, the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has firmly countered these claims. In its latest Drug Safety Update (DSU), the regulator reiterated that there is no evidence linking paracetamol use during pregnancy with autism or ADHD in children.
**Paracetamol Remains First-Choice Pain Relief for Pregnant Women**
Paracetamol—known globally by the brand name Tylenol or its generic name acetaminophen—is the most widely used medication for managing fever and body pain during pregnancy. The MHRA emphasized that paracetamol continues to be recommended as the first-choice treatment for pain and fever relief in pregnant women, provided it is used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary duration.
The updated guidance states:
*”Patients should be reminded and reassured that there is no evidence that taking paracetamol during pregnancy causes autism in children.”*
**Risks of Alternative Painkillers**
The MHRA also cautioned pregnant women against switching to alternatives such as ibuprofen. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen are generally not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the unborn child.
Importantly, the regulator highlighted that untreated fever and pain can pose significant health risks for both mother and baby. Therefore, effective and safe treatment is essential throughout pregnancy.
**Scientific Evidence Supports Safety**
The MHRA’s comprehensive four-page update references large-scale population studies, including research involving over 2.4 million children in Sweden, which found no causal link between paracetamol use during pregnancy and developmental disorders such as autism.
Additionally, a worldwide scientific literature review published in February 2025 found no evidence supporting a connection between paracetamol use and autism or ADHD.
The update also notes that both the Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the UK’s Commission on Human Medicines (CHM) have previously reviewed available data and arrived at similar conclusions—affirming that the benefits of paracetamol outweigh potential risks when used properly.
**Ongoing Monitoring Encouraged**
The MHRA encourages healthcare professionals and the public to continue reporting any suspected side effects of medicines, including paracetamol, through established pharmacovigilance systems. This vigilance helps ensure continued safety monitoring and protection for patients.
Healthcare providers are advised to maintain current guidance and to reassure patients who may have concerns about paracetamol use during pregnancy.
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**Summary:** Despite recent concerns raised publicly, authoritative regulatory bodies maintain that paracetamol remains a safe and effective option for pain and fever relief during pregnancy. Pregnant women should consult healthcare professionals and follow recommended dosing guidelines while avoiding unapproved alternatives.
https://www.news18.com/world/paracetamol-remains-safe-for-pregnant-women-uk-health-watchdog-rebuts-trumps-autism-claim-9592494.html