Trump promotes unproven links between pain relievers and autism
A recent review of studies showed that taking Tylenol during pregnancy does not increase the likelihood of autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or even intellectual disabilities. This review joins a growing body of research refuting claims made by former US President Donald Trump’s administration.
Last year, Trump promoted an unsubstantiated link between pain relievers and autism, advising pregnant women: “Don’t take Tylenol.”
The latest research analysis, published in The Lancet of Gynecology, Obstetrics & Women’s Health on Friday, reviewed 43 studies. It concluded that the most accurate and methodologically sound studies, such as those comparing siblings, provided strong evidence that the use of paracetamol, known outside the United States, does not cause autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability.
Dr. Asma Khalil, the lead researcher on the study, confirmed that “it is safe to use during pregnancy. It remains the first-line treatment we recommend if a pregnant woman is in pain or has a fever.”
