Study Confirms Paracetamol is Safe for Pregnant Women Amidst Controversial Claims

Sun Jan 18 2026 02:45:57 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A major new study has found no link between paracetamol use during pregnancy and the risk of autism or ADHD, contradicting previous controversial claims made by political figures.

Recent research published in The Lancet reviewed 43 robust studies involving pregnant women and concluded that paracetamol has no adverse effects regarding autism or ADHD in children. This study aims to dispel fears raised by US President Donald Trump's controversial statements, which suggested a potential link between the painkiller and developmental issues. Health experts emphasize the importance of paracetamol as a safe option during pregnancy for managing pain and fever.

A recent comprehensive review by experts has found that taking paracetamol during pregnancy is safe and does not elevate the risks of autism, ADHD, or developmental issues in children. This new evidence comes amidst a backdrop of controversial claims made by US President Donald Trump last year, who asserted that paracetamol should be avoided by pregnant women.

Medical experts emphasize that expectant mothers should feel reassured by these findings, which contradict Trump's assertions that paracetamol is harmful during pregnancy. The study, published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Women's Health, represents a consolidation of data from 43 of the most rigorous studies conducted on paracetamol use in pregnant women, involving hundreds of thousands of participants.

Lead researcher Professor Asma Khalil stated, There was no evidence that paracetamol increases the risk of autism. This finding is crucial as paracetamol is often recommended for managing pain or fever during pregnancy.

The researchers utilized high-quality sibling studies to exclude variables like genetics that might influence outcomes, reinforcing the reliability of their conclusions. Health officials in the UK continue to maintain that paracetamol is the safest option for pregnant women.

However, the US Department of Health and Human Services has voiced caution over acetaminophen (the US name for paracetamol), noting that some experts still have concerns regarding its use during pregnancy.

Prof Grainne McAlonnan from King's College London commented that prospective mothers do not need the added stress of worrying about the safety of prescribed pain relief during pregnancy. The general consensus among health professionals is that while paracetamol is safe, monitoring its dosage is essential, particularly during prolonged use.

This study aims to clarify any uncertainties regarding the association between paracetamol and autism, suggesting that previous claims may have stemmed from misunderstandings rather than direct causations.