Washington, D.C., September 23, 2025:
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has sparked fresh controversy after claiming that pregnant women should avoid paracetamol (acetaminophen) due to alleged risks of autism and ADHD in children. Trump suggested that the common pain-relieving medicine, widely used around the world, could increase the chances of neurodevelopmental disorders if consumed during pregnancy.
The remarks were made during a public event at the White House, where Trump insisted that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) should issue warnings on paracetamol labels for pregnant women. He further claimed that he has supported the discovery of a “miracle cure” for autism—led by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
However, Trump’s statements were swiftly rejected by global health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA), both of which emphasized that no scientific evidence supports his claims.
WHO Denies Trump’s Claim
In a statement from Geneva, WHO spokesperson Tarik Jašarević clarified that paracetamol is generally considered safe during pregnancy when used under medical supervision. “There is no scientific evidence linking the use of paracetamol in pregnancy with autism or ADHD,” Jašarević said. “Speculation of this nature only causes unnecessary fear and confusion among expectant mothers.”
WHO reiterated its long-standing position that vaccines do not cause autism, citing decades of scientific research. Experts warned that Trump’s remarks risk undermining public trust in essential medicines.
The European Medicines Agency also dismissed Trump’s claim, stating that “current evidence does not support an association between paracetamol use during pregnancy and autism spectrum disorders.”
Trump Pushes for FDA Warning Labels
Despite the backlash, Trump called on the FDA to place new warning labels on all acetaminophen products. According to him, pregnant women should avoid paracetamol unless absolutely necessary. He went further to say that excessive paracetamol use could cause irreversible harm to unborn children.
So far, the FDA has not issued any new guidelines or warnings about paracetamol use during pregnancy. Instead, it maintains that the medicine is safe when taken as directed. Medical experts argue that Trump’s push for warning labels lacks scientific backing and may contribute to unnecessary anxiety among pregnant women.
Scientific Consensus vs. Political Statements
Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is one of the most widely used over-the-counter drugs for pain and fever relief. It is often prescribed to pregnant women because it is considered safer than alternatives like ibuprofen or aspirin.
Multiple large-scale studies have examined possible links between prenatal paracetamol exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders, but results remain inconclusive. Researchers stress that even if risks exist, they are likely minimal and do not justify outright bans or public alarm.
Health experts caution that misinformation about widely used medicines could lead to dangerous alternatives. “If pregnant women suddenly stop using safe pain relievers because of misinformation, they may turn to unproven remedies that could harm both mother and child,” said Dr. Emily Harper, an obstetrician at Johns Hopkins University.
Trump’s Broader Autism Claims
Adding to the controversy, Trump also claimed that his administration has supported the discovery of a “miracle medicine” for autism treatment. While details remain unclear, he linked the initiative to U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has previously voiced controversial views on vaccines and public health.
Medical experts have criticized such claims, warning that they may create false hope for families seeking effective autism therapies. Currently, autism spectrum disorder has no known cure, though therapies and educational support can help individuals live fulfilling lives.
Conclusion
Trump’s latest remarks highlight the tension between political influence and scientific evidence in public health debates. While he urges stricter warnings on paracetamol, leading health organizations like WHO, EMA, and FDA maintain that the drug is safe for use during pregnancy when taken responsibly.
As misinformation spreads rapidly in the digital era, experts urge the public to rely on verified scientific research rather than political statements. For now, paracetamol remains one of the safest and most trusted medications for pregnant women—provided it is taken under a doctor’s advice.
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