A major global review has delivered reassuring news to expectant mothers: paracetamol is safe to use during pregnancy and does not increase the risk of autism, ADHD or other developmental disorders in children.
The findings, published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Women’s Health, directly contradict controversial claims previously made by US President Donald Trump, who alleged the common painkiller could be linked to autism and urged pregnant women to avoid it.
Gold-standard evidence puts fears to rest
The landmark review analysed 43 high-quality studies involving hundreds of thousands of women, focusing on robust sibling-comparison research that eliminates the influence of genetics and shared family environments. Researchers also prioritized studies with low risk of bias and long-term follow-up of children beyond five years.
The conclusion was clear: there is no evidence of a causal link between paracetamol use in pregnancy and autism, ADHD or intellectual disability.
Lead author Professor Asma Khalil, a consultant obstetrician and professor of maternal-fetal medicine at City St George’s, University of London, said pregnant women should feel confident using the medication when needed.
“The message is clear — paracetamol remains a safe option during pregnancy when taken as guided,” Prof Khalil said. “We found no association and no evidence that it increases autism risk.”
Why paracetamol matters in pregnancy
Medical experts warn that avoiding paracetamol can be more dangerous than taking it. Untreated fever or severe pain during pregnancy is linked to higher risks of miscarriage, premature birth and developmental complications in babies.
Paracetamol remains the first-line painkiller and fever reducer recommended for pregnant women by health authorities in the UK, Europe and many parts of the world.
Trump remarks sparked global confusion
The renewed scrutiny followed remarks made by President Trump in September 2025, when he claimed his administration was linking paracetamol — known as acetaminophen in the US and sold under brands like Tylenol — to autism.
The comments shocked doctors and medical bodies worldwide, triggering confusion among pregnant women and prompting renewed scientific investigation.
While some US officials have cited earlier studies suggesting caution with heavy or prolonged use, the new Lancet review says those findings are likely explained by underlying maternal illnesses, not the drug itself.
Medical community welcomes clarity
Independent experts have strongly welcomed the new evidence.
Professor Gráinne McAlonan of King’s College London said the study would ease unnecessary anxiety among expectant mothers.
“Women do not need the added stress of worrying that a simple headache tablet could harm their child’s future,” she said.
Professor Ian Douglas of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine described the review as “well-conducted and rigorous,” while Norwegian neuroscientist Professor Jan Haavik said the evidence “should effectively put this question to rest.”
Autism causes are complex
Scientists emphasize that autism is widely understood to result from a complex interaction of genetic and environmental factors, not from the use of a single medication during pregnancy.
UK health authorities have reiterated that paracetamol remains the safest and most effective pain relief option for pregnant women when used according to medical advice.
Medical experts agree: paracetamol is safe in pregnancy, effective, and often necessary. The latest evidence offers strong reassurance and closes the door on claims that lacked scientific backing.
For pregnant women facing pain or fever, the guidance remains unchanged — take paracetamol as directed and without fear.
