UPDATE: Major health organizations are urging pregnant women to continue using acetaminophen, commonly known as Tylenol, despite recent controversial claims suggesting a link to autism. During a news briefing on July 15, 2023, President Donald Trump warned against its use, stating, “If you’re pregnant, don’t take Tylenol.” This statement has ignited significant backlash from medical experts who emphasize that research overwhelmingly supports acetaminophen as a safe option for treating pain and fever during pregnancy.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) confirmed that acetaminophen remains a first-line treatment for pregnant patients, stating that the benefits outweigh potential risks. “Today’s White House event on autism was filled with dangerous claims,” said Dr. Susan Kressly, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She criticized the misleading information that could confuse expecting parents.
Experts stress that while there are limitations in research linking acetaminophen to autism, no new evidence was presented at the briefing to support these claims. The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine also reaffirmed that acetaminophen is an “appropriate medication to treat pain and fever during pregnancy.”
The risks associated with excessive acetaminophen use focus on liver damage rather than autism, experts note. Dr. James McPartland, a child psychologist at Yale, stated, “Autism is complex with a multi-factorial etiology, and that is the truth.” This highlights that autism cannot be attributed to a single cause.
Medical organizations agree that untreated pain or fever during pregnancy can pose more significant risks. A study published in the journal Pediatrics found that fever during the first trimester increases the risk of congenital heart defects and neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism, by up to three times. Dr. Allison Bryant, an ob/gyn and maternal-fetal medicine specialist, explained that acetaminophen can be crucial in diagnosing headaches during pregnancy, ensuring they are not indicative of more serious conditions.
Amid the ongoing discourse, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced it would issue a notice to physicians regarding acetaminophen risks during pregnancy. Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated that clinicians should prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration when necessary. This aligns with existing guidelines, reinforcing the importance of careful medication use during pregnancy.
The conversation surrounding medication use in pregnancy remains nuanced. Experts maintain that pregnant patients should consult healthcare providers about any medication concerns. ACOG emphasizes that informed discussions about the risks and benefits of medication are essential.
The call for clarity comes as many pregnant individuals feel overwhelmed by conflicting information. Dr. Elizabeth Werner, a clinical psychologist, urges expectant parents to seek guidance from their doctors to navigate these complexities. “You’re trying to do your best during your pregnancy, which can be very stressful,” she said.
As this situation develops, pregnant individuals are encouraged to stay informed and consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice. The medical community continues to advocate for evidence-based practices to ensure the health and safety of both mothers and their babies.
