Over the past few weeks, a former U.S. president has made unproven claims that an over-the-counter painkiller, commonly known as Tylenol in the United States and acetaminophen or paracetamol globally, is linked to autism. The president suggested there may be a connection between the use of the drug during pregnancy and what he called an "autism epidemic." He advised people not to take Tylenol and urged them to "fight like hell not to take it." These statements have sparked immediate backlash from health professionals, scientists, and families of autistic children who argue that the claim is not only unsupported by evidence but also potentially harmful.
HELLO! speaks to the experts about these claims
Is there a link between Tylenol and autism?
The idea that paracetamol could cause autism has been around for more than a decade. While some observational studies have explored this possibility, experts emphasize that no proven cause-and-effect relationship has been established.
Associate Professor Vinay Rane, an Australian doctor and lawyer with extensive experience in women’s health, explains: "The American President recently raised concerns about a potential link between Tylenol use during pregnancy and autism. These kinds of concerns are not new. For over a decade, researchers have looked into whether paracetamol, also known as Tylenol, might be associated with conditions such as autism or ADHD when used during pregnancy. A small number of observational studies have suggested a possible connection, but they do not prove causation. They simply highlight patterns that may be influenced by other factors."
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According to Vinay, paracetamol remains one of the most trusted medications used during pregnancy. "Paracetamol remains one of the most widely used medications in pregnancy, largely because alternatives carry greater risks. Its record of safety spans generations and continents."
He adds that the real challenge for researchers is distinguishing the effect of the drug from the reasons it is taken. "Pregnant women may use paracetamol to treat fever, infection, or significant pain. Those conditions alone can affect pregnancy outcomes and child development. That is why large reviews and health authorities consistently advise that paracetamol, used in moderation and only when needed, remains the safest option available."
What the experts advise
While science continues to evolve, doctors agree that alarmist claims can do more harm than good. For Vinay, the greater danger lies not in the careful use of Tylenol but in the fear surrounding it.
"The greater danger lies not in the careful use of Tylenol but in the fear that surrounds it. If expectant mothers are discouraged from treating fever or severe pain, both mother and baby may face real harm. Uncontrolled fever has been linked to preterm labor, birth complications, and long-term developmental risks," he says.
"The science is evolving and will continue to be debated. But the discussion is not new. For now, the most reliable advice remains unchanged. Tylenol, taken at the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary time, is safe in pregnancy. Alarmist claims risk doing more damage than the medicine itself. If you have pain or fever in pregnancy, please seek treatment."
A mother’s perspective on autism
For families already dealing with an autism diagnosis, the former president's comments have been emotionally jarring. Tanya Forster, a psychologist and CEO of the Macquarie Health Collective, is also the mother of a young autistic boy. She says the former president's remarks are not only misleading but deeply hurtful.
"As a psychologist and also as a mum of a little boy with autism, I find Donald Trump’s claims about paracetamol and autism pretty mind-blowing," she says. "Research has not demonstrated a singular cause for autism. It’s a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition with a strong genetic basis, often running in families or associated with broader genetic conditions. To suggest that one over-the-counter pain reliever is responsible is far too simplistic and not supported by credible large-scale studies."
But it is the impact on parents that Tanya finds most concerning. "What worries me most about these kinds of statements is the damage they do to families. Parents of autistic children already feel enormous pressure and guilt. To imply that they ‘caused’ their child’s autism because they took Panadol is not just wrong, it’s incredibly unfair."
Why autism diagnoses are increasing
The former president also claimed there is an "autism epidemic," a term that has been widely criticized by experts and advocates. Forster believes what we are really seeing is something far more hopeful.
"This so-called autism epidemic that Trump refers to? What we’re really seeing is the result of more awareness, less stigma, and better access to assessment," she explains. "More children being diagnosed earlier is actually a good thing. It means they can access support sooner, and we know early intervention changes lives."
What parents need to hear
In the face of panic-inducing misinformation, Tanya wants to reassure parents who may be feeling confused or fearful.
"I want parents to know this: autism is not something to be ashamed of. It’s not something caused by anything you did or didn’t do. Your child’s brain simply works in a different way. What changes outcomes isn’t blaming or stigmatizing. It’s support, love, and early intervention."
She believes public figures have a responsibility to lead with care and compassion, especially when discussing complex medical topics that touch so many lives. "These comments are upsetting, but they do not define your child, your parenting, or your family. What matters most is creating a world where autistic children are understood, accepted, and supported to thrive. We should be focusing on supporting families and creating a more inclusive society, not fueling fear with unfounded claims."
Stick to the science
While the current administration may amplify theories with little scientific merit, health professionals are urging parents to stay calm and informed. Paracetamol remains the most widely recommended pain relief option in pregnancy, and leading researchers agree that using it in moderation is safe. The suggestion that Tylenol causes autism is not backed by reliable evidence. For those with questions, always speak to your GP, rely on evidence-based advice, and try not to let fear outweigh the facts.
Expert bios
- Tanya Forster is a psychologist and CEO of the Macquarie Health Collective
- Associate Professor Vinay Rane is an Australian doctor and lawyer. He is a founding director of Melbourne Mothers.