Concerns were raised in Australia following remarks made by US President Donald Trump regarding the safety of paracetamol, commonly known as Tylenol, during pregnancy. During a press conference, Trump claimed that the use of paracetamol increases the risk of autism in children, prompting a strong response from health professionals across the country.
Health authorities, including Australia’s chief medical officer and the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), swiftly refuted Trump’s assertions. They emphasized that robust scientific evidence shows no causal link between paracetamol use during pregnancy and autism or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). A TGA statement highlighted that several large-scale studies directly contradict these claims.
Expert Opinions on Paracetamol Use
In a statement, Dr. Kerrie Aust, President of the Australian Medical Association ACT, pointed out that while some evidence suggests a correlation between autism and pregnancy, it is crucial to differentiate this from causation. “Generally, people have been relatively relaxed about the messaging out of the TGA and other key organizations around medicine safety in Australia. It remains safe to be taken in pregnancy,” Dr. Aust noted.
She further advised that pregnant individuals experiencing fever should consult their general practitioner, obstetrician, or midwife to identify the underlying cause and determine if it requires urgent treatment. Dr. Aust also dismissed Trump’s comments regarding delayed vaccinations, citing that the Australian Capital Territory has the highest vaccination rates in the country.
Pharmacist and President of the ACT Pharmacy Guild, Simon Blacker, expressed frustration over misinformation coming from non-medical experts. “When you hear non-medical experts making claims that are contrary to how we conduct our public health in Australia, it’s frustrating. You want people to be protected,” he stated. Blacker acknowledged that some individuals may seek out misinformation when they are feeling ill or anxious.
Government Response and Public Health Recommendations
Australia’s Health Minister, Mark Butler, underscored the importance of paracetamol, which is widely used in the country. He urged pregnant women to seek medical advice before making any decisions based on reports from the United States. “Paracetamol is not just a pain-killing medication; it’s crucial for treating fever, which can be dangerous if left untreated during pregnancy,” Butler explained.
Additionally, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists firmly rejected any claims linking paracetamol to neurodivergence in children. They reiterated the medication’s important role in managing complications during pregnancy, advising women prescribed low-dose aspirin to continue its use as directed by their healthcare provider.
As misinformation continues to circulate, health professionals are advocating for open dialogues between patients and their doctors. They encourage anyone with concerns about medication use during pregnancy to consult a qualified health professional for accurate information and guidance.
