Study Debunks Trump Claim: Paracetamol and Autism
- Taking paracetamol during pregnancy does not increase a child's risk of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability, according to a complete review of existing research published in the Lancet...
- The findings directly contradict claims made by former U.S.
- The study, led by Professor Asma khalil of City, University of London, and St George's Hospital in London, analyzed 43 previous studies.
Paracetamol Use During Pregnancy Doesn’t raise Risk of Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Study Finds
Taking paracetamol during pregnancy does not increase a child’s risk of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability, according to a complete review of existing research published in the Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Women’s health.
The findings directly contradict claims made by former U.S. President Donald Trump in September 2025, who falsely asserted a link between the painkiller and autism. His remarks drew widespread condemnation from medical, women’s health, and scientific organizations.
The study, led by Professor Asma khalil of City, University of London, and St George’s Hospital in London, analyzed 43 previous studies. Researchers examined data from a major number of children – 262,852 assessed for autism, 335,255 for ADHD, and 406,681 for intellectual disability – comparing outcomes among siblings born to the same mothers.
“This systematic review and meta-analysis found no evidence that maternal paracetamol use during pregnancy increases the risk of autism spectrum disorder, ADHD or intellectual disability among children,” the study states.
Sources say the research team, comprised of seven researchers from across Europe, conducted what they describe as “the most rigorous analysis of the evidence to date.”
“The message is clear: paracetamol remains a safe option during pregnancy when taken as guided,” Khalil said. “This is critically important as paracetamol is the first-line medication we recommend for pregnant women in pain or with a fever, and so they should feel reassured that they can use it.”
The findings offer reassurance to pregnant women, as paracetamol is widely recommended by health authorities worldwide for managing pain and fever.